The Indian women’s hockey team has officially departed for Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, to compete in the 2026 Asian Games, which run from September 19 to October 4. Fresh off a historic fifth-place finish at the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup—the highest placement ever achieved by an Indian women’s side—the squad is looking to maintain its momentum as they chase their first continental gold medal since 1982.
While the recent World Cup performance earned widespread praise, the players remain focused on the immediate challenge ahead. During a media interaction following a training camp at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) campus, key members of the squad, including forward Navneet Kaur, defender Lalremsiami Hmarzote, goalkeeper
Focusing on Gold and Olympic Qualification
For the Indian team, the Asian Games represent more than just regional supremacy; they offer a direct path to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Captain Salima Tete and goalkeeper Savita Punia have identified Olympic qualification as the ultimate dream for the current group. To achieve this, the team is adopting a disciplined, match-by-match approach, breaking each game into 15-minute segments to maintain intensity throughout the full duration of play.
Navneet Kaur highlighted the team's rigorous preparation, noting that under head coach Sjoerd Marijne, the squad has placed a heavy emphasis on attacking play and finishing. The strikers have been training specifically to create opportunities within the ‘D’ and maximize penalty corner chances, supported by drag-flick coach Taeke Taekema. This tactical evolution was evident during the World Cup, where India’s ability to compete against top-tier European teams and secure a draw against China provided a significant boost in confidence.
Building Camaraderie and Inspiring the Next Generation
The team’s internal culture remains a cornerstone of their preparation. Savita Punia spoke candidly about the healthy competition and mutual support between herself and fellow goalkeeper Bichu Devi. By fostering a strong connection off the field, the senior keeper believes the team performs better as a unit, with players pushing each other to reach higher standards during training sessions.
Beyond the pitch, the players are acutely aware of their role as ambassadors for the sport. Both Lalremsiami and Salima Tete noted the profound impact their recent international success has had on their home states of Mizoram and Jharkhand, respectively. The increased visibility of hockey has inspired a new generation of young athletes, providing the squad with additional motivation to perform at the highest level. As they head to Japan, the team carries the hopes of a nation, aiming to translate their recent progress into a gold-medal performance.
