The Indian women's hockey team is set to compete in the upcoming Asia Cup in Hangzhou, China, from September 5-14, but will be without its experienced goalkeeper, Savita Punia. The 35-year-old sustained an ankle injury during the European leg of the Pro League, ruling her out of the crucial tournament. Bansari Solanki, who debuted in the Pro League in June, will replace her in the squad.

The Asia Cup is particularly important as it offers a direct qualification spot for the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the Netherlands and Belgium. India finds itself in Pool B, where they will face Thailand (September 5), defending champions Japan (September 6), and Singapore.

In addition to Savita, experienced midfielder Sushila Chanu is also out due to a recurring knee injury. These absences will place additional responsibility on captain Salima Tete. Bichu Devi Kharibam, Savita's understudy, will have an opportunity to prove herself in a major competition.

Despite these setbacks, Udita Duhan, Nikki Pradhan, Mumtaz Khan, and Sangita Kumari are making a comeback to the team. Sangita Kumari is set to play her first match since November 2024. The 20-member team includes Bichu Devi Kharibam as the other goalkeeper. The defense will consist of Nikki Pradhan, Udita Duhan, Manisha Chauhan, Jyoti, Suman Devi Thoudam, and Ishika Chaudhary. The midfield will be managed by Neha, Salima Tete, Lalremsiami, Sharmila Devi, Sunelita Toppo, and Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke. The forward line will feature Navneet Kaur, Sangita Kumari, Mumtaz Khan, Deepika, Beauty Dungdung, and Rutaja Dadaso Pisal.

India's chief coach, Harendra Singh, expressed confidence in the selected squad, emphasizing the blend of experienced players and young talent. He highlighted the team's focus on playing aggressive and disciplined hockey, with the aim of competing strongly against the best teams in Asia. Singh acknowledged the high stakes of the Asia Cup, with the winner securing an automatic berth for the World Cup. He stressed the importance of composure, fitness, and tactical execution in every match and expressed confidence in the team's motivation to perform well.

The Indian women's team faces a tough challenge in the Asia Cup, with strong contenders like Paris Olympics silver medalist China and world number 12 Japan also vying for the World Cup qualification.