NEW DELHI: The Indian women's hockey team is set to begin its journey in a new Olympic cycle as they defend their Asian Champions Trophy title on home ground. The tournament starts Monday with a match against Malaysia.
India has won the tournament twice before, in 2016 and 2023. This year, the team is aiming for a turnaround after a challenging period where they missed qualifying for the Paris Olympics and struggled in the FIH Pro League.
The team, led by captain Salima Tete, features a mix of experienced and young players.
"Yes, of course we were disappointed but we can’t think about the past and need to move forward. We should move on because if we don’t move on, we can never win a match," captain Tete said.
Tete acknowledged the team's need to improve fitness, a key focus under new coach Harendra Singh.
"It was our mistake that we didn't work on fitness. But since sir came, we have worked a lot on our fitness. In today's level, if you don't have fitness, you can't play hockey because it is a fast sport and you need fitness," Tete explained.
India will face tough competition from five other nations: China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand.
The match schedule has been altered due to concerns about insects and floodlights. India's opening match against Malaysia will now be played at 4.45 pm.
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