NEW DELHI, Jan 29: The experienced striker Vandana Katariya has been selected for the 24-member Indian women’s hockey team that will participate in the Bhubaneswar stage of the FIH Pro League starting next month. Additionally, the young forward Sonam has been named as a standby.
India will compete against England, the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany two times each, commencing on February 15.
Salima Tete, a dynamic midfielder, will captivate the squad with forward Navneet Kaur stepping in as her vice-captain.
Katariya, who missed the women’s Asian Champions Trophy roster, joins defenders Nikki Pradhan and Jyoti Chhatri, midfielder Baljeet Kaur, and forwards Mumtaz Khan and Rutaja Dadas in the squad.
“This team showcases a solid mix of seasoned players and thrilling young talent, which is vital as we take on high-level opponents during the tournament. Our mission has been to establish a well-rounded squad, ensuring robust options in all positions,” remarked Harendra Singh, the chief coach of the Indian women’s hockey team.
Additional standbys include goalkeepers Banwari Solanki, defenders Akshata Abaso Dhekale and Jyoti Singh, as well as forwards Sakshi Rana, Annu, and Sonam.
Nineteen-year-old Sonam stands a good chance of making her senior international debut following an impressive showing in the recently wrapped-up Women’s Hockey India League, where she ranked as the second-highest scorer.
“I am particularly eager to observe how the younger players perform, especially those who have demonstrated significant potential in the Women’s Hockey India League,” said Harendra.
“We are confident in our team’s preparation and believe we have the ability to produce strong performances against some of the best teams globally,” he added.
According to FIH regulations, if a team has more than 4 matches scheduled during a Pro League stage, they are allowed to modify their 24-member squad after the initial 4 matches. Any adjustments must be made using players from their pre-approved substitution list.
India Squad
Goalkeepers: Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam,
Defenders: Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Nikki Pradhan, Udita, Jyoti, Ishika Chaudhary, and Jyoti Chhatri.
Midfielders: Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Neha, Manisha Chauhan, Salima Tete, Sunelita Toppo, Lalremsiami, Baljeet Kaur, and Sharmila Devi.
Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Mumtaz Khan, Preeti Dubey, Rutaja Dadaso Pisal, Beauty Dungdung, Sangita Kumari, Deepika, and Vandana Katariya. (Agencies)
