Hockey India Names 40-Member Core Group for Senior Women’s National Coaching Camp

Hockey India has announced a 40-member core group for the ongoing Senior Women’s National Coaching Camp at SAI, Bengaluru. The camp, which started on March 23, 2025, initially featured 65 probables, but after two weeks of assessment, the list has been trimmed to 40 players based on their performances.

While 28 players from the existing core group have retained their spots, 12 new players have been selected for their outstanding performances in the 15th Senior Women’s National Championship and the initial camp sessions.

Key Highlights of the Squad:

• Goalkeepers: Veteran Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam, Bansari Solanki, and Madhuri Kindo retain their spots, joined by Samiksha Saxena (Assam Hockey).
• Defenders: Core members Mahima Chaudhary, Nikki Pradhan, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, and Udita remain, while Anjna Dungdung (Hockey Bengal) and Suman Devi Thoudam (Manipur Hockey) make their way into the squad.
• Midfielders: Experienced names like Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Neha, and Salima Tete continue, along with Sujata Kujur (Hockey Bengal) and Pooja Yadav (UP Hockey) as fresh inclusions.
• Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Sangita Kumari, and Mumtaz Khan lead the attack, with Dipimonika Toppo (Odisha) and Hritika Singh (Hockey Madhya Pradesh) joining the group.

Coach Harendra Singh’s Take:

“We have done thorough assessments and identified the best 40 players available. The National Championships helped us scout emerging talent, and I believe these young athletes will contribute significantly to Indian hockey. This camp is a great opportunity for them to take their skills to the next level.”

The core group will undergo rigorous training, with the final selection shaping the Indian women’s hockey team for upcoming international tournaments.