Midfielder Salima Tete to Lead Team in FIH Pro League’s European Tour
In a significant leadership reshuffle within the Indian women’s hockey team, midfielder Salima Tete has been appointed as the new captain, replacing Savita Punia. The change comes ahead of the team’s participation in the upcoming Belgium and England legs of the FIH Pro League. Navneet Kaur will support Tete as the vice-captain on this European tour.
RANCHI – Salima Tete, a dynamic midfielder, has stepped up as the new leader for the Indian women’s hockey team, taking over from veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia who previously led during India’s Olympic qualifying attempts and domestic pro league matches.
Leadership Transition
Tete expressed her enthusiasm and readiness to embrace this leadership role.
“I am happy that I have been appointed to lead the team. It is a big responsibility and I am looking forward to this new role. We have a strong squad and it’s a mix of experienced and young players,” said Tete, reflecting her optimism about the team’s composition and her new position.
The team is gearing up for critical matches in the FIH Hockey Pro League, with Tete at the helm aiming to enhance their international standing.
“In the upcoming Belgium and England legs of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2023-2024, we look to put our strong foot forward. We have worked on areas where we needed to improve,” she added.
Savita Punia’s tenure as captain concluded after leading the team through challenging phases, including the unsuccessful campaign to qualify for the Olympics and subsequent pro league competitions.
The political sphere has also taken notice of this leadership change in sports, with Babulal Marandi, former Chief Minister of Jharkhand and current BJP State President, extending his congratulations.
Marandi praised Tete, acknowledging her as a source of pride for Jharkhand.
“Hearty congratulations to Salima Tete, resident of Simdega, daughter of Jharkhand, on being made the captain of the Indian women’s hockey team. All the people of Jharkhand are proud of your incomparable achievement,” Marandi commented, further wishing her success and national pride in her future endeavors.
