Salima Tete named India captain for Women's Asian Champions Trophy

Salima Tete was named the captain of the 18-member Indian women's hockey team announced on Monday for the Asian Champions Trophy to be held from November 11 to 20 at the newly developed Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar. Navneet Kaur will serve as Tete's deputy. India is entering the competition with high expectations, having won the title in last year's edition held in Ranchi. In the battle for continental supremacy, the team will face stiff competition from five other nations, including reigning Olympic silver medalists China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia and Thailand.

India will start its campaign against Malaysia on 11 November.

Speaking on the team selection and their preparation for the tournament, dynamic mid-fielder Tete said: “It is an incredible feeling to lead the team to another big tournament, especially as the defending champions.

“We have trained hard and have a strong unit with both experienced players and young talent. Our aim is to defend our title and play with the same passion and determination that we showed last year.” The goalkeeping responsibility will be shared between the experienced Savita and emerging talent Bichu Devi Kharibam.

The defense will be led by a solid line-up, which includes Udita, Jyoti, Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam and Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke.

In the mid-field, captain Tete will be supported by Neha, Sharmila Devi, Manisha Chauhan, Sunelita Toppo and Lalremsiami, who are known for their dynamic play.

The forward line-up, led by Navneet Kaur, Sangeeta Kumari, Deepika, Preeti Dubey and Beauty Dungdung, has firepower.

Notably, Sushila and Beauty Dungdung have returned to the team after successfully completing their rehabilitation.

Vice-captain Navneet said, “We are confident in our preparation and the chemistry we have created within the team. It is a huge excitement to play in front of our home crowd and we are ready to face tough competition from the best teams in Asia. ” Said.

“It has been great working with Salima and we are committed to making this tournament a memorable one,” he said.

India: Goalkeeper: Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam.

guard: Udita, Jyoti, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Ishika Chaudhary.

Midfielder: Neha, Salima Tete, Sharmila Devi, Manisha Chauhan, Sunelita Toppo, Lalremsiami.

Ahead: Navneet Kaur, Preeti Dubey, Sangeeta Kumari, Deepika, Beauty Dungdung.