India’s Young Brigade Ready for FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026

New Delhi, August 12: They have taken different routes, faced different challenges and waited for their opportunities at different stages of their careers, but Ishika, Lalthantluangi, Sakshi Rana, Shilpi Dabas and Sunelita Toppo now share the same destination: the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup.

For the five India debutants, making the World Cup squad represents more than just another milestone. It is the culmination of years of hard work, family support, setbacks and perseverance, with each player bringing a distinct story to the national team.
For 21-year-old Ishika, the journey has been shaped by both family backing and adversity. Her father has coached her from the beginning, while injuries and difficult periods helped her develop the mental strength needed to compete at the highest level.

“Representing India at the biggest stage is every player’s dream. It really feels like a dream come true,” Ishika said, quoted by the PTI. She now hopes to make her presence felt through her pressing and ability to create scoring opportunities.

For fellow 21-year-old Lalthantluangi, receiving her first India cap was a moment she shared with her family. “Words cannot express how I feel right now. This cap is not just mine; it belongs to my family as well. The real work starts now, and I want to give my hundred percent for the country,” she said.

Having balanced school and hockey while growing up, Lalthantluangi has already learned the importance of managing competing demands. At the senior level, she has also leaned on the experience of India’s established players.

“Our seniors are amazing. They have taken me under their wing, taught me how to handle the pressure and they just lead by example every single day,” she said. Her role at the World Cup will involve keeping India’s defence organised while contributing to the team’s build-up. At 19, midfielder Sakshi Rana is one of the youngest members of the group and will enter her first World Cup with a mix of excitement and nerves.

“There is definitely some excitement and a little nervousness because it is my first World Cup. But I think that nervous energy is good. I just want to enjoy the moment, stay focused and give my best on the field,” she said. Sakshi sees herself as the connecting link between India’s attacking and defensive units, hoping to contribute at both ends of the pitch. For Shilpi Dabas, the road to the World Cup has been defined by patience. The youngster had to wait for her opportunity at the senior level and was only called up to the national camp after the second season of the Hockey India League.

“I have received a massive platform. I am both happy and nervous,” Dabas said. Coming from a hockey-playing family, with her mother, father and brother having played the sport, Dabas started playing in Class VI. She believes her tackling and long-ball abilities can help her make an impact when called upon.

Her journey has also given her a message for youngsters waiting for their own breakthrough. “Don’t give up, keep working hard, and you will definitely get an opportunity eventually,” she said. Sunelita Toppo, also 19, brings another dimension to India’s attack with her pace on the wing. For her, selection is an opportunity to turn years of training into a contribution for the national side.

“Every player dreams of playing for the country, and I am fortunate to have received this opportunity,” Toppo said. “Speed is my strength, and I intend to use it for the team’s benefit. Since I play on the wing, I aim to pass the ball to the striker as quickly as possible so they can score,” she added.

The five players may have arrived at the World Cup through different paths, but their message is strikingly similar. Trust the work, embrace the challenge and make the most of the opportunity.

“You will face many challenges in life… There may even be times when you feel like quitting hockey. But if you believe in yourself and keep working hard, that effort will surely pay off,” Toppo said. Now, with the biggest stage awaiting them, India’s young brigade will look to turn those years of perseverance into performances that can help the team make its mark at the World Cup.