Salima Tete, the captain of the Indian women’s hockey team, has expressed strong confidence in her team’s ability to secure their first World Cup title in the upcoming 2026 Hockey World Cup in the Netherlands and Belgium. The captain’s optimistic outlook is rooted in the team’s recent performance and preparation.

Historically, the Indian women’s team achieved its best finish at the World Cup in 1974, where they placed fourth. Despite this, they have not reached the semi-finals in subsequent tournaments. Nonetheless, the team has demonstrated significant improvement following their fourth-place showing at the Tokyo Olympics and has adapted to challenges, including changes in coaching staff.

Under the guidance of Sjoerd Marijne in his second term as head coach, the team has seen considerable success, including an unbeaten run and victory at the FIH Nations Cup. Salima Tete emphasised that the team intends to employ a strategic and aggressive style of play to aim for a medal at the World Cup.

Focus on Team Unity and Strategy

Salima highlighted the importance of teamwork and a unified approach as she prepares for the upcoming matches. She stated her commitment to supporting every player on the field, regardless of the game’s outcome. Her belief in the team’s capabilities is firm, as she remarked, “This time, the FIH Hockey World Cup will be ours.” The captain is particularly enthusiastic about competing in her second World Cup.

According to Salima, her team’s recent success has set a positive tone for the World Cup. The Indian women’s team aims to continue their momentum by treating every match with equal importance. They are determined to replicate their earlier success from the FIH Nations Cup, setting their sights on bringing home a gold medal from the World Cup.

With significant competitions on the horizon, including the Asian Games, Salima Tete acknowledged the challenges posed by their group, which includes teams from China, England, and South Africa. Despite this, she reiterated that the team is diligently preparing for these tough matches and understands the competition they will face.

Mindset and Preparation for Each Match

Salima shared insights about her mental approach to the upcoming games, mentioning that like many athletes, she experiences nerves. However, she focuses on overcoming any anxiety as soon as the match begins. This mindset is crucial for her and the team’s performance.

As a leader, Salima aspires to be a role model who can uplift her teammates and instil positivity within the squad. She expressed her commitment to fostering an environment where players can learn from their mistakes and grow. “I want to bring positivity and energy to the group,” stated Salima, highlighting her determination to enhance team morale.

In conclusion, the Indian women’s team is set to kick off their World Cup campaign against China on August 16. With Salima Tete at the helm, the team is equipped with a clear plan and a robust mindset, aiming to achieve their goal of success in the prestigious tournament.

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