The Indian women’s hockey team is set to participate in the FIH Pro League 2024-25, a tournament that will run from November 30, 2024, to June 29, 2025. The tournament will take place across 11 cities, with India hosting their matches in Bhubaneswar starting in February 2025. After a challenging season in the previous edition, the team is looking to improve and build a foundation for future success.
Matches and Fixtures of India Women’s Hockey Team
India will begin their FIH Pro League campaign on February 15, 2025, facing England in Bhubaneswar. This will be followed by matches against other top teams like Argentina, Belgium, and Spain. The Pro League this season will see all teams, except Ireland, hosting matches at their home venues, ensuring a more competitive and diverse experience for all the participating teams.
Here are some key dates for India’s matches:
- February 15, 2025: India vs. England
- February 19-24, 2025: Matches against Argentina
- June 7-8, 2025: Matches in Spain
- June 14-22, 2025: Matches in Great Britain
The tournament will conclude with final matches in Belgium and Germany, as the Indian team aims to gain crucial points to secure a higher position in the rankings and ensure direct qualification for the 2026 FIH World Cup.
Reflecting on India’s Last FIH Pro League performance
In the 2023-24 season of the FIH Pro League, the Indian women’s team had a tough campaign, finishing eighth out of nine teams. Despite playing 16 matches, India only managed two wins, both of which came during the Rourkela leg of the tournament. They secured a 1-0 win over Australia and a 2-1 victory against the USA via a penalty shootout.
However, the Indian team struggled in many matches, suffering 13 defeats throughout the season. With just eight points to their name, they ended their campaign on a low note with a 2-3 loss to Great Britain. While the team managed to avoid relegation, the USA was relegated after finishing last in the standings.
Building for Future: India Women’s Hockey Team
Under the guidance of head coach Harendra Singh, the Indian women’s hockey team is focused on long-term goals. Singh has emphasized the need to build a strong foundation for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, encouraging the players to “forget the past and think about the future.” Singh’s vision is to develop a more dynamic, faster, and fitter team capable of competing with the best in the world.
Key to this transformation will be improving the team’s fitness levels, incorporating science and technology into training, and continuing to develop technical skills. Singh’s strategy, known as “SST” (Science, Skill, and Technology), will be crucial in ensuring the team remains competitive in big tournaments like the Pro League.
Outlook for FIH Pro League 2024-2025
India’s upcoming Pro League season presents a significant opportunity for growth and improvement. While expectations may be tempered after the previous season’s performance, the Indian women’s team has the talent and potential to climb the rankings and surprise top-tier teams. Players like captain Salima Tete and key performers such as Savita and Sharmila Devi will be crucial in leading India through this challenging tournament.
India will be looking to gain valuable experience and build momentum as they set their sights on a brighter future, both in the Pro League and beyond.
FIH Hockey Pro League 2024-25 dates and venues
| Dates | Venue |
|---|---|
| November 30 to December 5, 2024 | Hangzhou, China |
| November 30 to December 9, 2024 | Amsterdam, Netherlands |
| December 10 to 15, 2024 | Santiago del Estero, Argentina |
| February 4 to February 9, 2025 | Sydney, Australia |
| February 19 to 24, 2025 | Argentina (city to be decided later) |
| February 15 to 25, 2025 | Bhubaneswar, India |
| June 7 to 8, 2025 | Valencia, Spain |
| June 7 to June 15, 2025 | Amsterdam, Netherlands |
| June 14 to June 22, 2025 | London, Great Britain |
| June 14 to June 29, 2025 | Antwerp, Belgium |
| June 21 to June 29, 2025 | Berlin, Germany |
India women’s hockey team in last FIH Pro League
#8 | Played: 16; Wins: 2; Draws: 1; Losses: 13; Shootout bonus: 1
The India women’s hockey team had a challenging return to the FIH Pro League in the 2023-24 season, finishing eighth after playing 16 matches with only two wins, one draw, and 13 losses. Their victories came during the Rourkela leg in February, where they defeated Australia 1-0 and the United States 2-1 in a penalty shootout.
Despite a string of eight consecutive losses, including a 2-3 defeat to Great Britain in their final match, the team avoided relegation, securing eight points. Meanwhile, the United States, placed ninth with four points, were relegated to the Nations Cup.
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