The Women’s Asia Cup in Hangzhou, China, offers India a chance to redeem a turbulent season. After the heartbreak of missing Paris 2024 qualification and suffering eight consecutive defeats in the Pro League, the focus now shifts to resilience, strategy, and belief. For head coach Harendra Singh, the continental championship represents not just a reset, but also a pathway to the coveted direct ticket to the 2026 World Cup.
Of course, we faced tough times. We are in the rebuilding phase with the youngest squad. The process matters more than the outcome. If we stay committed, the rewards will follow.
India’s Pro League struggles exposed familiar flaws: conceding soft penalty corners and poor decision-making in the attacking circle. Harendra stressed that the young strikers need composure, while the backroom staff has increased focus on both mental and physical preparation to help players navigate fragile moments.
Injuries and Reinforcements
Injuries worsened India’s woes earlier in the year, with seasoned defenders Nikki Pradhan and Udita Duhan missing out. Their return now offers much-needed stability.“We were handicapped without Nikki and Udita. Now they are fit and back to their best. This restores balance to our defensive structure and allows midfield rotation, with versatile players like Jyoti working in dual roles,” Harendra explained.
“Indian Masala” Philosophy
While India’s attacking flair is admired worldwide, Harendra emphasises discipline at the back. His philosophy: minimise touches in defence, react instantly after turnovers, and evolve midfield running to smoothen transitions. Still, he refuses to restrain India’s natural creativity. He calls their attacking identity “Indian Masala” — a mix of speed, skill, and flair.
The moment we smell an opportunity, we attack. I never want to restrict this mindset. Our flair is our strength.
Mixed Start in Hangzhou
India began their campaign strongly with an 11-0 win over Thailand, followed by a 2-2 draw against Japan. But Harendra underlined that the real test lies in the Super 4s, where every mistake will carry consequences.
Setbacks: Savita and Deepika Ruled Out
India’s preparations took a heavy blow as veteran goalkeeper Savita (ankle injury) and drag-flicker Deepika (groin and hamstring) were ruled out of the Asia Cup.
Losing Savita for the first time in 10 years of a major tournament is a huge blow. Deepika too had shown great promise. Now Bichu must step up in goal, and others must share penalty corner duties.
Though the absence of these stalwarts forces India into uncharted waters, the coach sees opportunity. “The players know they must take responsibility when seniors are unavailable.”
Pressure as Privilege
Beyond tactics and personnel, the Asia Cup carries immense weight — the winner qualifies directly for the 2026 World Cup. Harendra frames that pressure as motivation.
Pressure is a privilege. It means you are trusted with responsibility. Convert fear into energy — that’s what fuels champions.
He also encourages his players to back their instincts.
“Sports has no room for ‘if.’ Decide first, then analyse. Playing without doubt makes you natural.”
A Chance for Revival
The Indian women’s team enters Hangzhou scarred by setbacks, but strengthened by returning defenders, Dutch coaching expertise in drag-flicking and goalkeeping, and a renewed belief in their attacking identity.
The absence of Savita and Deepika will test depth, but if India can blend defensive discipline with the fearless “Indian Masala” flair, the Asia Cup may yet mark the beginning of a revival story.
