Recent training sessions for the Indian women’s hockey team have emphasized specific drills tailored for various player groups.

Vice-captain Navneet Kaur explained, “The attackers focus on finishing, while defenders enhance their communication to bolster defense.”

Upon analyzing their performance in the 2024-25 FIH Pro League, where they faced relegation after finishing last, the team identified these as key areas needing improvement.

Throughout their 16 matches, India secured just two victories, drew three times, and faced 11 losses. They netted 22 goals, had the fewest circle penetrations (210), and conceded 52 penalty corners—figures reflecting a team in transition.

Time is of the essence as they head to the Asia Cup in September, aiming for a spot in the 2026 World Cup.

Post their surprising fourth-place outcome at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, India exceeded expectations; claiming third in the 2021-22 Pro League and winning the 2022 FIH Nations Cup.

Kaur acknowledges, “That was a winning phase with the team brimming with confidence. Now there have been changes, and we need to rebuild that confidence.”

The team now comprises fresh faces, following the departure of experienced players like Rani Rampal, Vandana Katariya, Deep Grace Ekka, and Gurjit Kaur.

Captain Salima Tete remarks, “Veteran players understood pressure; new players are still learning to navigate it.”

At 23, Tete is the youngest of eight players with over a hundred national caps.

Heading to Hangzhou, China for the Asia Cup, Tete emphasizes the need for mental resilience. She states, “Mental weakness means you’re already beaten. Whatever happened in the past, we must now concentrate on our strengths. Personal improvement sets a precedent for others. Everyone must self-evaluate and strive to recover past excellence.”

Integrating newer players is crucial for resurgence. Kaur points out, “For Tokyo, the team trained together for years. Now, many are new recruits struggling for motivation amid poor results. They need to learn from past games and excel in upcoming ones.”

With their Asia Cup opener against Thailand on September 5, the team morale has dramatically improved from the despair after their 2-3 loss to China on June 23, marking the end of their Pro League season.

Tete recalls the somber mood post-defeat, adding, “We questioned our defense and scoring. Yet, we now harness these insights for the Asia Cup. That’s our primary focus, uplifting the team’s spirits.”

Despite setbacks, including missing the 2024 Paris Olympics, India is determined to make meaningful strides forward.