India Women Face Must-Win Clashes vs China to Avoid Pro League Relegation
The Indian women's hockey team is under intense pressure as it gears up to end its FIH Pro League campaign against China this weekend. Winless in its last six outings, India sits at the bottom of the nine-team table with just 10 points from 14 matches — staring at possible relegation to the second-tier FIH Nations Cup in 2026.
This is far from the turnaround Hockey India had envisioned when Harendra Singh returned as head coach. Despite a promising start in the home leg, India's European tour unravelled with back-to-back defeats to Australia, Argentina, and Belgium.
India faces fourth-placed China in consecutive matches on Saturday and Sunday, needing nothing less than full points to stave off relegation.
While the team showed attacking intent, poor finishing and penalty corner execution have haunted it. Much of the burden fell on Deepika in set-piece situations, but she buckled under pressure more often than not. In contrast, the midfield — led by Salima Tete, Lalremsiami, Sharmila Devi, Neha, and a lively Sunelita Toppo — created ample chances.
However, the forward line, including Navneet Kaur, Baljeet Kaur, and Deepika, failed to deliver in the circle, lacking composure at crucial moments. Defensive errors from Sushila Chanu and company further compounded the woes.
Despite roping in Dutch drag-flick expert Taeke Taekema, India's conversion rate remains poor, and its backline continues to leak goals.
With a direct World Cup spot via the Pro League now out of reach, India must regroup quickly — not just to avoid relegation, but to build momentum ahead of the all-important Asia Cup in Hangzhou this September.
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