Women’s Hockey Asia Cup: India to Test ‘Strength and Strategies’ Against Thailand

Hangzhou — The Indian women’s hockey team will begin their Women’s Asia Cup 2025 campaign on September 5 with a clash against Thailand.

The two sides last met at the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in November 2024, where India secured a convincing win. Overall, India has faced Thailand seven times, winning all encounters while conceding just a single goal.

Speaking ahead of the opener, Indian captain Salima Tete said, “Although Thailand is ranked much lower than us in the FIH rankings, we are not taking them or any team lightly. This being our first match of the Asia Cup, it will set the tone for the rest of the tournament. We plan to test our strength and strategies and aim for a big win before facing Japan the following day.”

India has been drawn into Pool B alongside Japan, Thailand, and Singapore. The team will play Thailand at 12 pm IST on Friday, with the goal of topping the pool and advancing to the Super 4 stage, bringing them closer to the title.

Chief coach Harendra Singh added, “We have a strong blend of youth and experience in the squad. Despite some injury setbacks, I am confident the team will perform well. The Thailand match will allow us to assess our strengths and identify areas to improve before facing Japan. The girls are confident and eager for the challenge.”

India has lifted the Women’s Asia Cup trophy twice—in 2004 and 2017. In the last edition, the team finished third.

With inputs from IANS