STICK SHIFT

FOR elite Indian Hockey, 2024 has been a mixed bag of fortunes. While the men's team managed to bag a bronze medal at the Summer Olympics, the women's team has been met with one disappointment after another. Despite their dominance at the 2023 Asian Champions Trophy, it narrowly missed out on an Olympic berth at both the 2023 Asian Games and the 2024 FIH Olympic Qualifiers. Now, as they prepare to defend their title at the 2024 edition of the Asian Champions Trophy, to be held once again in India, with midfielder Salima Tete taking over the captaincy from veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia, the squad is determined to show their resilience in front of home fans and regain momentum on the international stage.

- DESE GOWDA

One of the most successful teams in the tournament alongside South Korea, with two titles each, for captain Salima, India's focus remains clear. "As captain, I always make sure to keep motivating the team," she says. "We have complete freedom on the pitch, so there is no need to feel pressured. Just play to your strengths. Regarding Paris (Olympics), we definitely still feel some pain. But we have to move on."