In the aftermath of a tumultuous year fraught with fierce competition and elusive victories, the Indian women’s hockey team is poised for renewal as they gear up to defend their Asian Champions Trophy (ACT) title on home soil, with a riveting encounter against Malaysia slated for Monday.
With a proud history of two ACT titles—first clinching the trophy in Singapore in 2016 and again triumphing in Ranchi in 2023—India steps into this prestigious tournament with aspirations of grandeur. Even though the FIH Pro League laid bare a challenging season, resulting in just two victories, a solitary draw, and a staggering 13 defeats out of 16 matches, the squad is resolute in turning the tide with the support of their fervent home crowd.
The roster for this ACT showcases a well-orchestrated blend of veterans and promising newcomers under the astute captaincy of Salima Tete. Vice-captain Navneet Kaur, a striker known for her deft skill and tenacity, is primed to ignite the forward line, as India confronts formidable challengers from five other nations: China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand. Among these, China looms especially large, boasting the stature of reigning Olympic silver medalists.
Defensively, India is fortified by a robust backline that includes Udita, Jyoti, Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, and Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke—all seasoned guardians of the goal eager to showcase their resilience. The midfield, led dynamically by Tete herself, will be energized by the likes of Neha, Sharmila Devi, Manisha Chauhan, Sunelita Toppo, and Lalremsiami, each known for their relentless energy and tactical prowess.
On the offensive front, India’s aspirations are spearheaded by an array of talent: Navneet Kaur, Sangita Kumari, Deepika, Preeti Dubey, and Beauty Dungdung, all poised to carve out scoring opportunities with their relentless attacks. The goalkeeping duties will be shared between the veteran Savita and the emerging star Bichu Devi Kharibam, both ready to shield the net with unwavering determination.
Excitingly, the squad welcomes back Sushila and Beauty Dungdung, both of whom have successfully navigated rehabilitation and are set to make significant contributions. As one of the early favorites in this tournament, India stands shoulder to shoulder with the formidable Chinese team, ranked sixth globally, while three-time champions South Korea and two-time winners Japan present additional challenges that could test India’s mettle.
This tournament heralds a revitalizing chapter for the Indian women’s team, steered by the insightful guidance of coach Harendra Singh, as they strive to build a robust foundation and sharpen their competitive edge in pursuit of success leading up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Women’s Champions Trophy 2024: India Squad
GOALKEEPERS
1. Savita
2. Bichu Devi Kharibam
DEFENDERS
3. Udita
4. Jyoti
5. Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke
6. Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam
7. Ishika Chaudhary
MIDFIELDERS
8. Neha
9. Salima Tete
10. Sharmila Devi
11. Manisha Chauhan
12. Sunelita Toppo
13. Lalremsiami
FORWARDS
14. Navneet Kaur
15. Preeti Dubey
16. Sangita Kumari
17. Deepika
18. Beauty Dungdung
Women’s Champions Trophy 2024: Full Schedule
| Game | Date (IST) | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|
| Japan vs. Korea | 11/11/24 | 12:15 PM |
| China vs. Thailand | 11/11/24 | 14:30 PM |
| India vs. Malaysia | 11/11/24 | 16:45 PM |
| Thailand vs. Japan | 12/11/24 | 12:15 PM |
| China vs. Malaysia | 12/11/24 | 14:30 PM |
| India vs. Korea | 12/11/24 | 16:45 PM |
| Korea vs. Malaysia | 14/11/24 | 12:15 PM |
| Japan vs. China | 14/11/24 | 14:30 PM |
| Thailand vs. India | 14/11/24 | 16:45 PM |
| Malaysia vs. Japan | 16/11/24 | 12:15 PM |
| Korea vs. Thailand | 16/11/24 | 14:30 PM |
| India vs. China | 16/11/24 | 16:45 PM |
| Malaysia vs. Thailand | 17/11/24 | 12:15 PM |
| China vs. Korea | 17/11/24 | 14:30 PM |
| Japan vs. India | 17/11/24 | 16:45 PM |
Women’s Champions Trophy 2024: Where to Watch Live
Fans can catch all the action from the Women’s Champions Trophy 2024 live on Sony Sports Ten 1 SD and HD channels.
Women’s Champions Trophy 2024: Where to Livestream
All matches of the Women’s Champions Trophy 2024 will be available for live streaming on the Sony LIV app and website.
