Five fresh faces as Hockey India names squad for Australia tour

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Apr 14, 2025, 15:12 IST

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Hockey India has announced a 26-member women's squad, led by Salima Tete, for a five-match tour of Australia starting April 26. Five uncapped players, including Jyoti Singh and Mahima Tete, have earned their first call-ups. The tour includes matches against Australia A and the senior national team, serving as crucial preparation for the FIH Pro League 2024-25.

Five fresh faces as Hockey India names squad for Australia tour

(Hockey India Photo)

NEW DELHI: Hockey India on Monday announced a 26-member women’s squad for the upcoming five-match tour of Australia, scheduled from April 26 to May 4 at the Perth Hockey Stadium. The major talking point of the selection is the inclusion of five uncapped players – Jyoti Singh, Sujata Kujur, Ajmina Kujur, Pooja Yadav and Mahima Tete – who have received their maiden call-ups to the senior national team.
India will face Australia A in the first two matches, followed by three fixtures against the senior Australian national team. The series is expected to serve as a key preparatory test ahead of the European leg of the FIH Pro League 2024-25, which begins in June.
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The squad, a blend of youth and experience, will be led by dynamic midfielder Salima Tete, with veteran forward Navneet Kaur named vice-captain. Goalkeeping duties will be shared between stalwart Savita and young Bichu Devi Kharibam.

In defence, the team features a promising mix, including new faces Jyoti Singh, Sujata Kujur, and Ajmina Kujur, alongside seasoned players like Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam and Ishika Chaudhary. Midfield will be marshalled by captain Salima, with newcomers Mahima Tete and Pooja Yadav adding depth and flair.
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The forward line boasts an aggressive setup, with Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Mumtaz Khan, and Rutaja Dadaso Pisal providing firepower, supported by fresh talent like Deepika Soreng and Beauty Dungdung.
Standby players include Bansari Solanki (GK), Anjana Dundung, Lalthantluangi (defenders), Sakshi Shukla, Khaidem Shileima Chanu (midfielders), and forwards Dipi Monika Toppo and Sonam.

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Do you believe this tour will positively impact India's preparation for the FIH Pro League?

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Speaking on the squad, chief coach Harendra Singh said, “This tour offers a crucial opportunity to test our depth and strategies against world-class opposition. It’s exciting to see young players breaking into the senior squad through consistent performances. This exposure will be invaluable for their growth.”
Singh also emphasised the importance of the tour in fine-tuning the team ahead of a packed international calendar.

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