India Names 20-Member Squad for Women's Hockey World Cup Qualifiers; Savita Punia Withdraws

Hockey India announced a 20-member squad for the FIH Women's Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers, scheduled in Hyderabad from March 8 to 14. Veteran goalkeeper and former captain Savita Punia has opted out due to personal family reasons. Midfielder Salima Tete will lead the team, which includes goalkeepers Bansari Solanki and Bichu Devi Kharibam. India will compete in Pool B alongside Scotland, Uruguay, and Wales, aiming for one of three qualification spots for the World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.