Buoyed by India's recent FIH Nations Cup victory in New Zealand, captain Salima Tete is confident the team can bring home a medal at the upcoming FIH Women's World Cup 2026.
Indian women's hockey team captain Salima Tete believes the momentum from their recent FIH Nations Cup victory in New Zealand has equipped the side to aim for the top prize at the upcoming FIH Women's World Cup 2026.
The 24-year-old captain, who is set to feature in her second World Cup, expressed complete faith in her team despite being placed in a challenging pool for the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the Netherlands and Belgium from August 15 to 30.
Speaking to JioStar, Tete emphasized that the team aims to play smart, attacking hockey and maintain a winning mindset across all matches. She noted that after their success in New Zealand, the objective remains unchanged for the World Cup, where they are determined to bring home the gold medal.
Acknowledging the natural pressure that comes with major competitions—which also include the FIH Pro League and the approaching Asian Games—Tete stressed her role as a leader in keeping the squad positive and united, while encouraging junior players to play without fear.
Tete highlighted young players Sakshi Rana, Ishika, and Rutuja Dadaso Pisal as eager contributors to the squad, urging them to play freely while senior members take on the burden of pressure. She also credited India's goalkeepers for giving the outfield players the confidence to attack aggressively.
Reporting sourced from The Hindu Hockey. Photo courtesy The Hindu Hockey.