New Delhi, 7th January 2024: Day 7 of the 2nd Khelo India Sub Junior Women’s Hockey League – Phase 2 witnessed SAI Bal Team, SAI Shakti Team and Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy win their respective matches.



SAI Bal Team records comprehensive win:

In the first match of the day, SAI Bal Team defeated Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy Bhagta 10-0. Tanu Shorensangbam (2’, 23’), Shanti Horo (9’, 36’) and Riya (20’, 35’) scored braces for SAI Bal Team, while Jyoti Xaxa (11’), Captain Guljan Kumari (27’), Manjinder (28’) and Sree Vidya Thirumalasetty (31’) contributed with one goal each.



SAI Shakti Team wins comfortably:

In the second match of the day, SAI Shakti Team defeated Jai Bharat Hockey Academy 22-0. Ravina (7’, 29’, 36’, 37’, 45’) was the top scorer for SAI Shakti Team with five goals, Captain Kajal (4’, 22’, 58’), Sanjana (11’, 13’, 26’), Binati Minz (15’, 38’, 51’) and Sakshi (17’, 50’, 52’) scored hat-tricks, Bhavya (10’, 49’) and Tamanna (44’, 53’) scored braces while Navroop Kaur (43’) scored a field goal.



Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy records convincing win:

In the third match of the day, Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy defeated Anantpur Sports Academy 6-0. Priya Chauhan (39’, 57’) and Ritika (44’, 51’) scored braces while Vanshika (27’) and Vanshika (44’) scored a field goal each for Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy.

New Delhi, 07 January 2024: Hockey India on Sunday named a 41-member core probable group for the Junior Women’s National Coaching Camp that begins on 8th January 2024 in Sports Authority of India (SAI), Bengaluru. The new core probable group has been picked based on their performances in the domestic championships held in 2023. 

The players will report to Coach Tushar Khandker on 8th January for a month-long camp that concludes on 6th February. The list of core probables includes goalkeepers Vidyashree V, Aditi Maheshwari, Nidhi, Engil Harsharani Minz, defenders Lalthantluangi, Niru Kullu, Mamita Oram, Thounjaojam Nirupama Devi, Jyoti Singh, Anjali Barwa, Pawanpreet Kaur, Puja Sahoo while the midfielders called up are Priyanka Dogra, Rajni Karketta, F. Lalbi Aksiami, Manisha, Nirali Kujur, Hina Bano, Ksetrimayum Sonia Devi, Anisha Sahoo, Priyanka Yadav, Khaidem Shileima Chanu, Supriya Kujur, Jaisikdeep Kaur, Binima Dhan, Huda Khan and Sakshi Rana. 

The forwards called up for the camp include Sonam, Sanjana Horo, Dechamma PG, Ishika, Himanshi Sharad Gawande, Kanika Siwach, Nisha Minj, Yamunna, Geeta Yadav, Gurmail Kaur, Lalrinpuii, Munmuni Das, Ashwini Punjab Kolekar and Sunelita Toppo.

Speaking about the upcoming camp, Coach Tushar Khandker said, “This core group has been picked based on the players’ performances for their respective state teams in the Hockey India Junior Women’s National Championship, the Zonal Championships as well as the Junior Women Academy National Championships and the Zonal Championships. I have always believed that there is no dearth of talent in India. I look forward to working with this new group as these players will be closely watched and developed with focus on the next FIH Junior World Cup.”

List of players in the 41-member core-probable group:   

         Goalkeepers        

1. Vidyashree V         

2. Aditi Maheshwari   

3. Nidhi 

4. Engil Harsharani Minz             

         Defenders 

5. Lalthantluangi        

6. Niru Kullu     

7. Mamita Oram        

8. Thounjaojam Nirupama Devi     

9. Jyoti Singh 

10. Anjali Barwa  

11. Pawanpreet Kaur   

12. Puja Sahoo       

         Midfielders      

13. Priyanka Dogra      

14. Rajni Karketta        

15. F. Lalbi Aksiami      

16. Manisha       

17. Nirali Kujur   

18. Hina Bano    

19. Ksetrimayum Sonia Devi  

20. Anisha Sahoo         

21. Priyanka Yadav      

22. Khaidem Shileima Chanu  

23. Supriya Kujur         

24. Jaisikdeep Kaur      

25. Binima Dhan          

26. Huda Khan   

27. Sakshi Rana         

         Forwards 

28. Sonam         

29. Sanjana Horo         

30. Dechamma PG       

31. Ishika  

32. Himanshi Sharad Gawande        

33. Kanika Siwach        

34. Nisha Minj    

35. Yamunna      

36. Geeta Yadav          

37. Gurmail Kaur 

38. Lalrinpuii      

39. Munmuni Das    

40. Ashwini Punjab Kolekar       

41. Sunelita Toppo (Sr. Women Core Group)              

         Standby   

1. Lakhimoni Majuwar (Goalkeeper)       

2. Mamteshwari Lahare (Defender)        

3. Sejal (Forward)   

New Delhi, 2^nd January 2024: Day 2 of the 2nd Khelo India Sub Junior Women’s Hockey League – Phase 2 witnessed SAI Shakti Team, Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy and Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Center win their respective matches.  

SAI Shakti Team records comprehensive win:   

In the first match of the day, SAI Shakti Team defeated Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy, Bhagta 18-0. Binati Minz (40’, 44’, 56’, 60’) scored four goals, Ravina (2’, 23’, 55’), Purnima Yadav (5’, 26’, 47’), Tamanna (10’, 22’, 45’) and Bhavya (12’, 32’, 48’) scored hat-tricks while Navroop Kaur (29’) and Sanjana Raikwar (57’) scored a goal each for SAI Shakti Team.  

Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy wins comfortably:   

In the second match of the day, Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy defeated Jai Bharat Hockey Academy 7-0. Ritika (20’, 33’) scored a brace while Harshita (12’), Arti (37’), Vanshika (39’), Jyoti (48’) and Priya (57’) scored a field goal each for Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy.  

Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre records convincing win:  

In the third match of the day, Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre defeated Anantpur Sports Academy 6-0. Saniya Syed (26’, 27’) and Pragya Patel (28’, 44’) scored braces for Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre while Captain Doli Bhoi (3’) and Sheetal Yadav (18’) contributed with a goal each. 

New Delhi,30^th December 2023: Day 10 of the 2nd Khelo India Sub Junior Women’s Hockey League – Phase 1 witnessed SAI Shakti Team, Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre, SAI Bal Team and Salute Hockey Academy win their respective matches.    

SAI Shakti Team records comfortable win: 

In the first match of the day, SAI Shakti Team defeated Khelo India Sports Excellence Centre Chhattisgarh 9-0. Ravina (15′, 27′, 59′) scored a hat-trick, Purnima Yadav (22′, 36′) scored a brace, while Captain Kajal (12′), Bhavya (25′), Binati Minz (48′) and Ruthi Lallawmzuali (54′) scored a goal each for SAI Shakti Team.

Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre records convincing win: 

In the second match of the day, Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre defeated Anantpur Sports Academy 5-0. Payal Sonkar (13′, 19′, 29′) scored a hat-trick for Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre while Sweety Kujur (5′) and Sheetal Yadav (32′) scored a goal each.

SAI Bal Team has it easy: 

In the third match of the day, SAI Bal Team defeated Jai Bharat Hockey Academy 11-0.  Lalpeksangi (2′, 4′, 30′), Sree Vidya T. (3′, 29′, 37′) and Shanti Horo (35′, 54′, 59′) scored hat-tricks while Tani Shorensangbam (22′) and Riya (56′) scored a goal each for SAI Bal Team as they went on to win the match clinically.

Salute Hockey Academy overcomes Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy, Bhagta:
In the fourth match of the day, Salute Hockey Academy defeated Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy, Bhagta 4-1. Janvi (17’) scored the first goal of the game with a field goal early in the second quarter for Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy, Bhagta but a hat-trick from Loveleen (24’, 29’, 57’) and a field goal from Jyoti (47’) for Salute Hockey Academy ensured a comfortable victory.  

Bengaluru, 30th December 2023: Hockey India, on Saturday, named an 18-member Indian Women’s Hockey Team for the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024, scheduled to be held in Ranchi from 13th to 19th January. The squad will take the field in Ranchi with the aim to finish as one of the top three teams in the competition and secure qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

India have been placed in Pool B, along with New Zealand, Italy, and the United States. Meanwhile, Germany, Japan, Chile, and the Czech Republic will battle it out in Pool A. India will open their campaign against the United States on the 13th January, followed by a match against New Zealand on the 14th January, and they will go up against Italy in the last Pool B match on the 16th January.

The Indian Women’s Hockey Team for the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024 comprises goalkeepers, Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam. Meanwhile, Nikki Pradhan, Udita, Ishika Chaudhary, and Monika have been named as defenders in the squad.

Nisha, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Neha, Navneet Kaur, Salima Tete, Sonika, Jyoti, and Beauty Dungdung will feature in the midfield. Lalremsiami, Sangita Kumari, Deepika, and Vandana Katariya will lead the line as forwards.

Seasoned Indian custodian Savita, who recently won her third consecutive FIH Goalkeeper of the Year Award, will once again be leading the squad. Meanwhile, veteran forward Vandana Katariya, who recently became the first-ever women player from India to complete 300 caps, has been named as Savita’s deputy for the all-important tournament.

Speaking on the team selection, Indian Women’s Hockey Team Chief Coach Janneke Schopman said, “The FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024 is an important tournament on our Paris 2024 Olympics journey. It is imperative that we live up to expectations and all the players in the squad are working to secure qualification. After careful consideration, we have chosen a well-balanced team with immense skill and experience in all departments. Also, Savita and Vandana have faced high-pressure situations numerous times in their career so far, they are well equipped to guide the rest of the team as the Captain and Vice Captain.”

Indian Women’s Hockey Team for FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024: 

Goalkeepers  

1. Savita ©

2. Bichu Devi Kharibam 

Defenders  

3. Nikki Pradhan 

4. Udita 

5. Ishika Chaudhary  

6. Monika 

Midfielders  

7. Nisha 

8. Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke  

9. Neha 

10. Navneet Kaur 

11. Salima Tete 

12. Sonika 

13. Jyoti 

14. Beauty Dungdung  

Forwards 

15. Lalremsiami  

16. Sangita Kumari 

17. Deepika 

18. Vandana Katariya 

Bengaluru, 29th December 2023: Renowned drag flicker Rupinder Pal Singh is currently at SAI Bengaluru to conduct a 5-day drag flicking camp for the Indian Women’s Hockey Team. The camp, which commenced on 27th December, will see Rupinder Pal assisting the Indian Women’s Hockey Team’s drag flickers, including Deepika and Gurjit Kaur, as the team prepares for the crucial FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024.

The FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024 is scheduled to take place in Ranchi from the 13th to the 19th January. India are placed in Pool B along with New Zealand, Italy, and the United States. Meanwhile, Pool A consists of Germany, Japan, Chile, and the Czech Republic.

Speaking about their ongoing session, seasoned Indian pro Gurjit Kaur said, “The 5-day drag flicking camp at SAI Bengaluru has proven to be a valuable experience for us. We are learning new things each day and looking to further improve our game by focusing on specific aspects that need refinement. Rupinder has been instrumental in guiding us, and the overall experience has been one of focused intensity. As we gear up for the upcoming tournaments, we are confident that the lessons learned here will contribute significantly to our performance on the field.”

Echoing Gurjit’s sentiments, young Indian Women’s Hockey Team forward Deepika said that Rupinder’s experience as a drag-flicker has been invaluable to them. “He shared his insights on the first rushers in today’s game, how they have become fearless and close down on the ball faster than before. To counter this, he advised us to pick up the ball faster. We also picked his brain on how to beat the first rusher, determining the line the rusher follows, where to get the ball stopped, which angle to take the shot in, and how to deal with mis-trapped balls. This camp will help us strengthen our penalty corners and give us a better chance to score in the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024,” Deepika commented.

Rupinder Pal Singh had scored a whopping 234 goals in 223 appearances for the Indian Men’s Hockey Team before his retirement in 2021. The towering fullback was also an integral part of the team that claimed the Bronze medal in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

“Gurjit and Deepika are exceptional players and drag flickers. They quickly understand and implement my pointers. This crash course will be a fantastic way to brush up on their skills before heading to Ranchi to participate in the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024. The whole team seems to be giving their all to ensure they qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympics, and I am certain that they will do well in Ranchi,” the ace drag-flicker elaborated on the ongoing camp.

New Delhi, 29^th December 2023: Day 9 of the 2nd Khelo India Sub Junior Women’s Hockey League – Phase 1 witnessed Raja Karan Hockey Academy and Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy win their respective matches.  

Raja Karan Hockey Academy wins a close game:    

In the first match of the day, Raja Karan Hockey Academy defeated Khalsa Hockey Academy, Amritsar 2-1. Captain Kudrat (14’, 45’) scored the first goal for Raja Karan Hockey Academy with a penalty corner conversion. She then doubled the lead at the end of the third quarter with a field goal. Jashandeep Kaur (54’) provided some hope for Khalsa Hockey Academy, Amritsar with a goal in the fourth quarter but Raja Karan Hockey Academy held onto the lead to win the match.  

Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy records comfortable win:    

In the second match of the day, Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy defeated Ghumanhera Risers Hockey Academy 4-0. Chanchal (18’), Vanshika (25’) and Aarti (35’) scored a field goal each while Captain Ritika (37’) converted a penalty corner for Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy as they won the game without conceding any goal.  

Bengaluru, 29th December 2023: The Indian Women’s Hockey Team has had a great run in the year 2023. They missed out on direct qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games but bounced back to clinch the Jharkhand Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Ranchi 2023. Furthermore, they have achieved their best-ever FIH World Rankings, which is a testament to their hard work and dedication.

With their focus solely pinned on winning the Gold medal at the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games, the Indian Team started the year with practice matches against South Africa and the Netherlands in January followed by a three-match tour to Australia in May 2023. They then participated in the 4 Nations Invitational Tournament in Terrassa where they remained unbeaten against the hosts Spain and England.

Following an action-packed first half of 2023, the Indian Women’s Hockey Team clinched the Hockey5s Asia Cup held in Salalah in August 2023. They entered the Asian Games with a strong momentum. They were unbeaten in the pool stage of the tournament, but went down 0-4 against China in the Semi-Final, thus missing out on the Gold medal match and eventually ruling out of contention for direct qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. However, they returned home with a Bronze medal from China.

Looking back at an eventful year, India’s ace goalkeeper and Captain Savita, expressed, “It has been a wonderful year, we had our ups and downs but we have grown from strength to strength as a team. There is one regret of missing out on the direct qualification for the Paris 2024, but it’s part and parcel of sports. We have left that disappointment behind and have been focusing on our learnings.”

India then went on to clinch the Jharkhand Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Ranchi 2023 with a dominant 4-0 win over Japan in the Final and achieved their best-ever FIH World Rankings (No. 6 with 2368.83 points) in November.

“We are ending the year on a high; we had a great outing in Ranchi at the Asian Champions Trophy. We were unbeaten in the tournament and there have been a lot of learnings as well throughout the year. We have climbed to No. 6 in world rankings, which is our highest-ever, so this is something that will give us a major boost as we enter the New Year,” Savita stated.

It will be a busy start to 2024 as India will take part in the all-important FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024 and the FIH Hockey5s World Cup Oman 2024 scheduled to be held in January. They will also make a comeback in the FIH Pro League 2023/24 season from February in Odisha. 

“It will certainly be a busy start to the new year. We are focused on the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024 at the moment and are working very hard at the National Camp. We will be playing at the same venue where we won the Asian Champions trophy recently, so we have good memories of Ranchi. We are looking forward to an exciting 2024,” Savita concluded.

New Delhi, 28^th December 2023: Day 8 of the 2nd Khelo India Sub Junior Women’s Hockey League – Phase 1 witnessed SAI Shakti Team, SAI Bal Team and Ghumanhera Risers Hockey Academy win their respective matches while Anantpur Sports Academy held Raja Karan Hockey Academy for a draw.  

SAI Shakti Team wins comfortably:    

In the first match of the day, SAI Shakti Team defeated Khalsa Hockey Academy Amritsar 18-0. Purnima Yadav (1’, 5’, 25’, 27’, 34’) scored five goals, Bhavya (12’, 26’, 29’) and Binati Minz (30’, 45’, 45’) scored hat-tricks, Captain Kajal (3’, 14’), Ravina (9’, 18’) and Sakshi (35’, 36’) scored braces while Nisha Dadel (48’) scored the final goal of the game for SAI Shakti Team.  

Anantpur Sports Academy holds Raja Karan Hockey Academy to draw:   

In the second match of the day, Anantpur Sports Academy drew with Raja Karan Hockey Academy 1-1. After a goalless three quarters, Kudrat (55’) converted a penalty corner to put Raja Karan Hockey Academy in the lead. M. Shalini (60’) found the back of the net in the final minute of the game through a penalty corner conversion for Anantpur Sports Academy as the game ended in a draw.  

SAI Bal Team overcomes Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy: 

In the third match of the day, SAI Bal Team defeated Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy 3-0. Captain Riya (19’) opened the scoring with a goal in the second quarter for SAI Bal Team. Vandana Patel (58’, 59’) then added two goals towards the end of the game as SAI Bal Team recorded a comfortable win. 

Ghumanhera Risers Hockey Academy records convincing win: 

In the fourth match of the day, Ghumanhera Risers Hockey Academy defeated Salute Hockey Academy 4-0. Diya (3’) scored a field goal early in the game for Ghumanhera Risers Hockey Academy before Dipika (21’) doubled the lead in the second quarter. Nisha (29’, 53’) then scored a brace as Ghumanhera Risers Hockey Academy went on to win the game comprehensively.  

Bengaluru, 27th December 2023: The Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team had some memorable outings in 2023, with their dearest memories emanating from the Women’s Junior Asia Cup in Japan. The Team defeated Korea 2-1 in the Final to lift the Junior Asia Cup trophy for the very first time in India’s history. 

The first international outing for the team was in the India U21 Tour of South Africa in February. The Indian Team defeated the South African U-21 team in all three games and were held to a 4-4 draw by South Africa’s ‘A’ team in their last match. The unbeaten Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team was then well poised to battle the best Asian Teams in the Women’s Junior Asia Cup, following a period of intense training. 

An 18-member squad flew to Kakamigahara, Gifu Prefecture, Japan, and emerged as Champions of the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2023 by defeating Korea with a score of 2-1 in a captivating Final match. All the 18 members of this triumphant Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team were part of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) National Centres of Excellence (NCOE). 

Reminiscing the swell of emotions after lifting the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2023, Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team Captain Preeti said, “We were elated to bring back the trophy, and the fact that we were the first group from India to win the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2023 was the icing on the cake. Something clicked in the squad back then, we were playing free-flowing hockey, scoring loads of goals in the process, and we were destined to win. The love and support we received upon returning was overwhelming and I am thankful we got to experience that.” 

As the Team prepared for the FIH Junior Hockey World Cup 2023, former Indian Men’s Hockey Team Captain Tushar Khandker was roped in to spearhead the development of the Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team in June. In August, he was joined by Herman Kruis, charged with the responsibility of overseeing both Indian Junior Hockey Teams. 

For a final test run, the Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team participated in the 4 Nations Tournament – Dusseldorf 2023 where they faced Germany, Spain, and England in August this year. Meanwhile, defender Sonia Devi Kshetrimayum and forward Dipi Monika Toppo were part of the squad that won the inaugural Women’s Asian Hockey 5s World Cup Qualifier in Salalah, Oman. 

The moment of reckoning arrived as the team made its way to Santiago, Chile to stake their claim for the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup 2023 in November. After an ecstatic victory against Canada in the opening match, the Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team lost to Germany and Belgium to crash out of their Pool. But their spirit remained intact, inspiring them to beat New Zealand, Korea, and the United States in the classification matches and ultimately finished 9th in the World Cup. 

Reflecting on the trials and tribulations of 2023, Preeti said, “All-in-all it was a memorable year, we started on the right foot but fell short in the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup 2023. Although we desired a better result in the World Cup, the growth of the team this year has been astounding. The players improved technically, gained tactical knowledge, and showed great mental resilience when it was most required. I am proud that I got the opportunity to lead this Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team.” 

New Delhi, 26th December 2023: Baljeet Kaur, a booming talent in the Indian Women’s Hockey circuit who has been steadily carving her path to prominence within the squad, is aiming to make it to the squad for the forthcoming FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024, scheduled to take place from January 13th to 19th in Ranchi, Jharkhand.

Since her debut in the Senior team at the 2021-22 FIH Hockey Pro League, Baljeet Kaur has been on an upward trajectory, showcasing consistent improvement and unwavering dedication. Her journey has been marked by noteworthy performances in pivotal tournaments, including the 2023 Test matches against South Africa and Australia, and the 2023 4 Nations Women’s Invitational Tournament in Barcelona.

Baljeet Kaur’s growth as a 22-year-old midfielder has been evident, with her remarkable abilities and adaptability shaping her into a valuable asset for the Indian Women’s Hockey Team. Her recent role in the triumphant Jharkhand Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Ranchi 2023 victory underscored her importance in the squad.

Reflecting on her journey so far, Baljeet expressed, “It’s been an incredible journey representing India on various international platforms. Each tournament has been a stepping stone, an opportunity to learn and grow as a player. From my debut in the Senior team to the recent tournaments against formidable opponents, it’s been a whirlwind of experiences. I’ve had the privilege to contribute to the team’s victories, and each moment on the field has fuelled my passion for the sport. The trust of the team and the coaches has been instrumental in my development, and I’m grateful for the opportunities that have shaped me into the player I am today.”

Baljeet Kaur’s notable progress and dedication position her as a compelling contender for a spot in the Indian Women’s Hockey Team for the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024. Speaking on the possibility of playing at a crucial tournament, Baljeet said, “The prospect of playing in the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers is incredibly exciting for me. It’s not just about personal achievement; it’s about contributing to the team’s collective goal of securing a spot in the prestigious 2024 Paris Olympics. Representing India in such a significant tournament would be an absolute honour. I am prepared to give my all, to leave everything out on the field if given the chance.”

India is gearing up for the pivotal FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024, eyeing a coveted berth at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The Indian Women’s Hockey Team’s journey commences with an encounter against the United States on January 13th, followed by a clash with New Zealand on 14th January. Their final battle in Pool B is slated against Italy on January 16th. Meanwhile, Pool A features formidable opponents such as Germany, Japan, Chile, and the Czech Republic, setting the stage for an exhilarating and fiercely competitive tournament.

Bengaluru, 26th December 2023: Hockey India on Wednesday announced the 34-member core probable group for the Senior Women’s National Coaching Camp, which is scheduled to commence on 27th December at the SAI Centre in Bengaluru. The upcoming camp is significant as the Indian Team will aim to fine-tune their preparations ahead of the crucial FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024 and the FIH Hockey5s Women’s World Cup 2024.

The Indian Women’s Hockey Team will return to camp after a short break following their excursion in Spain. They faced off against Belgium, Germany, Ireland, and hosts Spain in the 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 and will now gear up to make a strong showing in the Olympics Qualifiers and confirm their place in the all-important Paris 2024 Olympics.  

The FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024 are scheduled to take place from 13th to 19th January in Ranchi, with India placed in Pool B alongside New Zealand, Italy, and the United States. Meanwhile, Pool A comprises Germany, Japan, Chile, and the Czech Republic. Following that, India will participate in the FIH Hockey5s Women’s World Cup 2024 in Muscat, Oman, which is set to begin on 24th January and conclude on 27th January.

The core group includes goalkeepers Savita, Rajani Etimarpu, Bichu Devi Kharibam, and Bansari Solanki, while Deep Grace Ekka, Gurjit Kaur, Nikki Pradhan, Udita, Ishika Chaudhary, Akshata Abaso Dhekale, Jyoti Chhatri, and Mahima Chaudhary form the group of defenders. Nisha, Salima Tete, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Jyoti, Navjot Kaur, Monika, Mariana Kujur, Sonika, Neha, Baljeet Kaur, Reena Khokhar, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, and Ajmina Kujur are the midfielders called up for the camp, while Lalremsiami, Navneet Kaur, Vandana Katariya, Sharmila Devi, Deepika, Sangita Kumari, Mumtaz Khan, Sunelita Toppo, and Beauty Dungdung form the forwards line-up. 

The Indian Women’s Hockey Team will return to Ranchi after a dominating performance at the Jharkhand Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Ranchi 2023, where they were crowned Champions last month. With the aim of qualifying for the Paris 2024 Olympics, the Chief Coach of the Indian Women’s Hockey Team, Janneke Schopman, is striving to draw out the best performances from her players.

Janneke Schopman explained the importance of the upcoming camp and said, “The 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 served as a good litmus test ahead of the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024. We identified areas for improvement, and we will use this festive period to dot all the i’s and cross the t’s. The squad is eager to return to Ranchi after their triumph in the Jharkhand Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in November. With the little time left, we will focus on refining our game to ensure we are in the best position—physically, tactically, and mentally—to secure qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics.”

Indian Women’s Hockey Team 34-member Core Group:  

GOALKEEPERS 

1. Savita 
2. Rajani Etimarpu 
3. Bichu Devi Kharibam 
4. Bansari Solanki 

DEFENDERS 

1. Deep Grace Ekka 
2. Gurjit Kaur 
3. Nikki Pradhan 
4. Udita 
5. Ishika Chaudhary 
6. Akshata Abaso Dhekale 
7. Jyoti Chhatri 
8. Mahima Chaudhary 

MIDFIELDERS 

1. Nisha 
2. Salima Tete 
3. Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam 
4. Jyoti 
5. Navjot Kaur 
6. Monika 
7. Mariana Kujur 
8. Sonika 
9. Neha 
10. Baljeet Kaur 
11. Reena Khokhar 
12. Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke 
13. Ajmina Kujur 

FORWARDS 

1. Lalremsiami 
2. Navneet Kaur 
3. Vandana Katariya 
4. Sharmila Devi 
5. Deepika 
6. Sangita Kumari 
7. Mumtaz Khan  
8. Sunelita Toppo 
9. Beauty Dungdung 

New Delhi, 25^th December 2023: Indian Women’s Hockey Team forward Jyoti Chhatri believes her experience at the recently concluded 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 has helped her grow as a player. The 19-year-old has been a key figure in the Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team setup for the past year and played across all six games for India at the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup 2023, scoring a goal during the thrilling 3 – 3 (3 – 2 SO) win over New Zealand. She also played a prominent role during India’s Gold-medal-winning performance at the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2023.

While Jyoti made her Senior team debut at the 2023 4 Nations Women’s Invitational Tournament (Barcelona) earlier this year against England, the 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 was another good chance for her to compete against some of the top teams – Ireland, Germany, Spain, and Belgium.

“I was elated to be considered for the squad for the Valencia tour. It is always a great opportunity to learn when you get to train alongside the senior team. Having competitive matches against such strong oppositions also helped me understand the tenacity and mental strength needed to fight to win at the highest levels,” Jyoti said.

The Indian Women’s Hockey Team began the tournament with a 2-3 loss to Spain and a 1-2 loss to Belgium in Valencia. After losing 1-3 to Germany in their third game of the competition, India recorded a thrilling 2-1 win over Ireland to finish off the tournament.

Speaking on the results, Jyoti said, “While the results were not in our favour on the tour, we could recognise the important areas where we have to focus on and we were able to improve with each game. It was an important series for us with bigger tournaments coming up next year. We feel we were able to take a lot from the series, which has helped our growth as a team.”

India will be competing in the all-important FIH Hockey Olympics Qualifiers Ranchi 2024, aiming to secure a spot in the Paris 2024 Olympics. The Indian Women’s Hockey Team will begin the campaign against the United States on 13th January and go on to face New Zealand on 14th January, before their last Pool B clash against Italy on 16th January. Pool A comprises Germany, Japan, Chile, Czech Republic.

“The preparatory tour in Valencia has boosted my confidence as an individual and I am hopeful to get a chance to be a part of the Indian squad for the FIH Hockey Olympics Qualifiers Ranchi 2024. This past year has really helped me develop as a player and I am eager to grab on to every opportunity that comes my way. The senior players, coaches, and support staff have been thoroughly supportive and have helped me a lot whenever needed. It is a dream for every player to represent India at the Olympics, and our journey to Paris as a team will hopefully begin in January,” Jyoti signed off.

New Delhi, 22^nd December 2023: Day 2 of the 2nd Khelo India Sub Junior Women’s Hockey League – Phase 1 witnessed Khelo India Sports Excellence Centre Chhattisgarh, SAI Shakti Team, Ghumanhera Risers Hockey Academy and SAI Bal Team win their respective matches.  

Khelo India Sports Excellence Centre Chhattisgarh wins comfortably:    

In the first match of the day, Khelo India Sports Excellence Centre Chhattisgarhdefeated Raja Karan Hockey Academy 6-0.  Madhu Sidar (3’, 11’, 43’, 54’) led the way for Khelo India Sports Excellence Centre Chhattisgarh with four goals while Damini Khusro (55’) and Radhikaa (60’) scored a field goal each.  

SAI Shakti Team records convincing win:   

In the second match of the day, SAI Shakti Team defeated Anantpur Sports Academy 20-0. Purnima Yadav (6’, 18’, 47’, 49’) scored four goals, Ravina (2’, 39’, 46’), Captain Kajal (4’, 35’, 49’) and Binati Minz (10’, 57’, 58’) scored hat-tricks, Nisha Dadel (25’, 26’) and Sakshi (43’, 54’) scored braces while Khusi (11’), Priyanka (15’) and Navroop Kaur (53’) scored a goal each for SAI Shakti Team.  

Ghumanhera Risers Hockey Academy overcomes Jai Bharat Hockey Academy:   

In the third match of the day, Ghumanhera Risers Hockey Academy defeated Jai Bharat Hockey Academy 3-1. After a goalless first half, Dipika (33’) scored for Ghumanhera Risers Hockey Academy but Aashi (35’) immediately equalized for Jai Bharat Hockey Academy. Two minutes later Captain Sunaina (37’) put Ghumanhera Risers Hockey Academy back in the lead before Dipika (60’) returned to score her second goal as Ghumanhera Risers Hockey Academy went on to emerge victorious.  

SAI Bal Team notches up commanding win:  

In the fourth match of the day, SAI Bal Team defeated Salute Hockey Academy 10-0. Riya (29’, 46’, 60’) scored a hat-trick, Shanti Horo (6’, 17’) scored a brace, while Sukar Mani Mundu (3’), Vandana Patel (22’), Guljan Kumari (25’), Manjindu (40’) and Laltylanchhungi (54’) contributed a goal each in SAI Bal Team’s win.  

New Delhi, 22nd December 2023: Hockey India President and former Indian Captain, Padma Shri Dr. Dilip Tirkey, received an honorary Ph.D. in Sports Science from Sri Sri University on Thursday. This distinguished accolade acknowledges Tirkey’s notable contributions to the field of sports, underscoring his substantial influence on Indian hockey and steadfast dedication to its progress. 

Tirkey’s remarkable career, marked by numerous participations in multiple Olympics and World Cups, along with his outstanding leadership both on and off the field, reflects his commitment to promoting excellence in sports. Remarkably, he holds the record for the highest number of international appearances in Indian hockey, with an impressive total of 412 caps.

Dilip Tirkey, the recipient of a Ph.D. in 2010 from Sambalpur University, further solidifies his legacy with an honorary Ph.D. from Sri Sri University. This accolade is a resounding testament to Tirkey’s exceptional sportsmanship and his enduring impact on shaping the trajectory of Indian sports.

New Delhi, 22nd December 2023: With only three weeks until the FIH Hockey Olympics Qualifiers Ranchi 2024, the Indian Women’s Hockey Team is preparing to compete in Ranchi, aiming to secure a spot in the Paris 2024 Olympics.

“We have some high-calibre teams coming to Ranchi to battle for qualification to the Paris 2024 Olympics, but we have a great group of players and an outstanding support staff. So, we are certain that we can finish on the podium and qualify for the Olympics. The aim will be to play each match on our terms, take more responsibility for our actions in-game, be solid at the back, and capitalize on the chances we create,” commented Indian Women’s Hockey Team Chief Coach Janneke Schopman on India’s chances in the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024.

India will begin the campaign against the United States on 13th January and go on to face New Zealand on 14th January, before their last Pool B clash against Italy on 16th January. The Pool A comprises Germany, Japan, Chile, Czech Republic.

The team is entering this tournament after playing preparatory matches in Spain. The Indian Women’s Hockey Team won the Gold medal at the Jharkhand Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Ranchi 2023 and the Bronze medal at the 19th Asian Games, both times defeating Japan. The team is optimistic about the upcoming tour, buoyed by the enthusiastic support of home fans. The team’s main goal is to finish in the top three and secure a spot in the Paris Olympics in 2024.

Elaborating on the preparations, Janneke Schopman said, “The last few months were crucial, and I am happy with the way the team has responded after missing out on direct qualification from the Asian Games. Our performance in the Jharkhand Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Ranchi 2023 is an example of the team’s potential. The next step is to tap into this potential and become a consistently high-performing team. The 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 was important in this regard, as it helped us fine-tune our game and maintain match sharpness before entering a critical juncture in our journey to the Paris 2024 Olympics.”

Valencia, 21st December 2023: The Indian Women’s Hockey Team wrapped up their 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 campaign with a 2-1 against Ireland on Thursday. Deepika (4’) and Sangita Kumari (22’) were on target for India, while Captain Kathryn Mullan (12’) scored the only goal for Ireland. 

India started the game on the front foot, with Deepika slotting the ball into the back of the net to give India the lead early in the first quarter. But Ireland were not fazed by the early Indian onslaught; they picked themselves up and went on to equalize through their Captain Kathryn Mullan shortly after.

In the second quarter, Ireland looked to claim the lead, earning two penalty corners in quick succession but the Indians remained resolute in their defence. The Indian Women’s Hockey Team went on to earn a penalty corner of their own and Sangita Kumari stepped up to score and put her team in the lead again before the halftime break. 

The third quarter saw both teams earn a penalty corner each but they both failed to capitalise on them and the scoreline remained 2-1 in India’s favour heading into the fourth quarter. 

Ireland pushed for an equaliser in the last quarter, pegging India back into their half and earning three penalty corners. However, the Indian defence rose to the occasion, saving all attempts and ensuring that they walked away as the winners.