K ARUMUGAM
In a significant move that signals the start of a defining season, Hockey India today announced a powerhouse 24-member squad for the upcoming tour of Argentina. Scheduled to take place in Buenos Aires from April 13 to 17, this four-match Bilateral International Series (BIS) against the world-class Las Leonas comes at a pivotal juncture as India intensifies preparations for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 and the upcoming Asian Games.
The squad represents a strategic blend of veteran steel and vibrant emerging talent. Leading the charge from the midfield is the seasoned Salima Tete. Continuing her tenure as captain, Tete remains the heartbeat of the side, known for the intelligence and dynamism that have made her one of the most respected pivots in the global game.
Perhaps the most heartening news for Indian fans is the return of two stalwarts who were missed during recent qualifiers. Legendary goalkeeper Savita returns to man the posts, bringing her unparalleled experience to a defensive line that will surely be tested by Argentina’s aggressive frontline. Her return is complemented by the rising star Bichu Devi, whose stellar performance in Savita’s absence proved that India now possesses elite depth in the goalkeeping department.
In the attacking third, the return of forward Deepika marks a crucial boost. After a period of rehabilitation, Deepika reassumes her role as India’s primary drag-flicker. While players like Annu—who impressed during the qualifiers—and Navneet Kaur stepped up admirably in her absence, Deepika’s presence adds a layer of lethal precision to India’s set-pieces. Navneet Kaur, a standout performer over the past year, will continue to be a vital creative spark alongside the clinical Baljeet Kaur and the returning Mumtaz Khan.
The midfield looks equally robust with the inclusion of Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, whose consistent ball retention and creative forward runs have made her a near-automatic selection. Additionally, the squad features the “next generation” trio of Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Ishika, and Sakshi Rana. This tour offers these young prospects a high-stakes environment to accumulate the experience necessary to cement their future in the national side.
Speaking on the selection, Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne emphasized that the 24-member squad is a “deliberate choice” to build bench strength. “Argentina is one of the best teams in the world, and that environment will tell us exactly where each player stands,” Marijne noted. “This tour is about giving more players international exposure and testing various combinations before the big tournaments later this year.”
The series will serve as an essential litmus test for the squad’s tactical evolution. India will face Argentina on April 13, 14, 16, and 17. All matches are scheduled for 11:00 AM local time (7:30 PM IST), allowing Indian hockey fans to follow the “Women in Blue” as they take their first firm step toward creating history in 2026.
24-member Indian Women’s squad for Argentina Tour:
GOALKEEPERS
Savita
Bichu Devi Kharibam
DEFENDERS
Nikki Pradhan
Ishika Chaudhary
Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam
Manisha Chauhan
Lalthantluangi
Jyoti
Udita
MIDFIELDERS
Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke
Sakshi Rana
Sunelita Toppo
Salima Tete
Neha
Deepika Soreng
Rutuja Dadaso Pisal
Ishika
FORWARDS
Baljeet Kaur
Navneet Kaur
Deepika
Annu
Beauty Dungdung
Lalremsiami
Mumtaz Khan