The Indian women's hockey team has started its journey toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics with an impressive and unbeaten run at the Asian Champions Trophy (ACT). This victory marked a strong comeback for the team, which had been disheartened after missing out on qualifying for the Paris Olympics earlier this year. With a fresh outlook and a new, fitter lineup, the team is now focused on the future under the guidance of coach Harendra Singh.

Since taking charge in April, Harendra's goal has been clear: securing qualification for the 2028 Olympics. He has always believed that a strong performance at the ACT would set the perfect tone for their ambitions, including the 2026 World Cup and the Olympics. The team’s performance in this tournament has been a testament to the hard work they have put in under his leadership.

Captain Salima Tete expressed her pride in the team’s performance, saying, "I truly believe this victory will inspire more young girls to take up hockey and further elevate the sport in India. We are thrilled to be able to bring this win to our fans and our nation." Despite the victory, Salima emphasized that the team's long-term goals remain the primary focus, stating, "We are working hard every day, trusting the process, and staying dedicated to delivering our best in every tournament."

The team’s performance in the ACT was nothing short of remarkable. They remained unbeaten throughout the competition, winning seven matches, including the semifinal and the final. One of the standout aspects of their game was their ability to transition the ball from defense to attack, utilizing both wings effectively. The defense, too, was solid, allowing only two goals in seven matches, while scoring 29 goals themselves.

Deepika, a 20-year-old striker, was a key figure in the team’s success, finishing as the tournament's top scorer with 11 goals. Her contributions included four field goals, six from penalty corners, and one penalty stroke. Other notable goal-scorers included Sangita Kumari, Preeti Dubey, Navneet Kaur, and Lalrmsiami, all of whom made significant contributions to India’s attacking prowess.

Coach Harendra had worked extensively on the team’s fitness, and it was evident throughout the tournament, as the team played fast-paced, one-touch hockey, causing problems for opponents, including Olympic silver medalists China, whom they defeated 1-0 in the final to retain the ACT title.

While the attack was led by Deepika, vice-captain Navneet Kaur, Lalrmsiami, and Neha were key in the midfield. The young Sangita also played an important role inside the circle, and Salima, along with 17-year-old Sunelita Toppo, impressed with their dribbling and skillful runs on the flanks. The defense, led by Udita, Sushila Chanu, Jyoti, and Ishika Chaudhary, was equally strong. The Indian goalkeepers, Savita Punia and Bichu Devi Kharibam, were rarely called into action due to the solid defensive efforts.

However, there remains an area of concern for Harendra—India’s penalty corner conversion rate. Despite earning many penalty corners during the tournament, the team struggled to execute them effectively. Although they scored 12 goals from penalty corners, there was a lack of variation and efficiency in their execution. With options like Deepika, Udita, Navneet, and Manisha Chauhan available, the team will look to improve in this aspect.

Looking ahead, the future looks bright for the Indian women's hockey team as they aim to gain more exposure by participating in the first-ever four-team Women's Hockey India League, set to take place in Ranchi from January 12 to January 26, 2025.

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