Hyderabad buzzes with anticipation as India’s women’s national hockey team takes the field for the FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifier 2026 from Sunday. The mission? Clinch a coveted place in the 2026 edition amid tough international rivalry and fervent local cheers.
Eight teams converge: India (hosts), England, Scotland, Korea, Italy, Uruguay, Wales, Austria. Pool play splits them into Group A (England, Korea, Italy, Austria) and Group B (India, Scotland, Uruguay, Wales). Top-two per group reach semifinals; winners claim medals.
Medalists advance straight to the expanded 2026 World Cup (16 per category, nine secured). Fourth overall with superior ranking sneaks in too.
Ninth-ranked India, next to seventh-placed England, begins March 8 against Uruguay, then Scotland (9th) and Wales (11th). Coach Schord Marin’s recent arrival promises tactical evolution for a side with eight World Cup nods, best at 1974’s fourth spot.
Leader Salima Tete motivates: ‘Thrilled for Hyderabad showdown before our fans. Hard work defines our prep—we grasp the stakes. Rivals everywhere fight for spots; tough matches ahead. We’ll stay focused per game, unleash our best for World Cup success.’
Poised with home turf mastery and elite preparation, India’s campaign could mark a pivotal chapter in women’s hockey resurgence.