Overview

• Hockey India said Deepika sustained a hamstring injury in training and will undergo rehab for weeks, with Sakshi named as her replacement in the 20-player squad.
• Led by captain Salima Tete, India has been placed in Pool B and opens against Thailand on September 5 before facing Japan on September 6 and Singapore on September 8.
• Salima said the team’s immediate goal is to top the pool and reach the Super Fours as they chase the title and World Cup qualification.
• With the primary drag-flick option unavailable, drag-flick duties are expected to shift to Manisha Chauhan, according to reports.
• The campaign follows a difficult season for India, including relegation from the FIH Pro League, adding pressure on the side to deliver in Hangzhou.