The Indian women’s hockey team will fight for its third continental title when the Women’s Asia Cup 2025 begins on Friday in Hangzhou, China. Importantly, this tournament also acts as a qualifier for the 2026 FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup, which Belgium and the Netherlands will co-host.

The winning team will secure a direct World Cup berth. Meanwhile, teams finishing second to fifth will move to the World Cup Qualifiers early next year for another chance to qualify.

Tournament History and Viewing

This year marks the 11th edition of the Women’s Asia Cup, which first took place in 1985. Since then, the tournament has been held every four years, showcasing the best hockey talent across the continent.

Additionally, fans in India can watch all matches live through online streaming platforms, ensuring they don’t miss a single moment of the action.

Salima Tete Leads Indian Squad

Salima Tete will captain a 20-member Indian team, which combines experience and young talent.

For instance, senior players like Navneet Kaur, Nikki Pradhan, Lalremsiami, and Udita bring depth and leadership to the squad. At the same time, rising stars such as Beauty Dungdung and Mumtaz Khan aim to prove themselves on the international stage.

However, India will miss veteran goalkeeper and former captain Savita Punia, who is not part of the squad. Furthermore, drag flicker Deepika suffered a hamstring injury during training. As a result, she has been replaced by Sakshi.

Format and Schedule

The tournament features eight teams, which are divided into two groups of four each.

During the group stage, every team will play three matches. After this round, the top two teams from each group will advance to the Super 4s stage.

Finally, the winners of the Super 4s will compete for the title in the final on September 14 in Hangzhou.

India’s Group and Rivals

India, who previously won the Asia Cup in 2004 and 2017, are placed in Pool B.

In this group, defending champions Japan, who have three titles, are expected to be India’s toughest competition. Thailand and Singapore are also part of the group and will aim to cause upsets.

Meanwhile, hosts China and three-time champions South Korea headline Pool A, making it equally competitive and setting the stage for thrilling matchups.

India’s Road Ahead

India’s primary goal is to win the title and qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup.

With a mix of experienced players and energetic newcomers, the team will look to dominate the group stage and maintain momentum throughout the tournament.

Consequently, strong performances in Hangzhou could help India reclaim continental glory, boost its global ranking, and inspire young hockey players back home.