Maharashtra’s Rutuja Dadaso Pisal Selected in Indian Women’s Hockey Team for 20th Asian Games 2026

Pune, 10th July 2026: In a proud moment for Maharashtra and Indian hockey, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal has been selected in the 20-member Indian Women’s Hockey Team for the 20th Asian Games, Aichi-Nagoya 2026, Japan, as announced by Hockey India.

Hailing from Kolki village in Satara district, Rutuja has emerged as one of the country’s most promising young forwards. Her selection is the result of years of hard work, discipline, and consistent performances at both the domestic and international levels.

Rutuja has represented India with distinction in several prestigious tournaments, including the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2023, where India won the title, and the FIH Hockey5s World Cup 2024, where the Indian team secured the silver medal. Her pace, attacking instincts, and commitment on the field have earned her a regular place in the national setup.

The Indian Women’s Hockey Team for the Asian Games will be led by Captain Salima Tete and comprises a balanced mix of experienced internationals and emerging young talent.

India has been placed in Pool B along with Japan, Singapore, and Thailand. The team will aim to deliver a strong performance at the continental event and compete for the gold medal.

Rutuja was previously coached by Ajit Lakhra and her selection comes after the shortlisting of Vaishnavi Phalke, who was part of the previous Asian Games squad, where the team finished with a bronze medal. This time around, Vaishnavi has not been selected due to a knee injury.

Speaking on Rutuja’s selection; Manoj Bhore, Hockey India, Associate Vice President and Hockey Maharashtra, Senior Vice President said, “it is with pride that we acknowledge Rutuja Pisal’s Asian Games selection, a significant achievement for Maharashtra and all aspiring athletes. This accomplishment represents Rutuja from her Krida Prabhodini days, NCOE, Lakshyavedh, making one realise a long-held aspiration, a testament to her unwavering dedication and diligent efforts in transforming from a reserved individual into a formidable and assertive forward and midfielder. On behalf of the entire Mission Lakshyavedh family, we from Hockey Maharashtra and Mission Lakshyavedh congratulate and wish her the very best for the tournament.”

Bhore recalled, “hailing from a modest background, where Rutuja’s father was engaged in agricultural work, her journey is particularly inspiring. I recall vividly the occasion when her parents, accompanied by her younger brother, travelled from Phaltan via a moped to request my assistance in securing Rutuja’s passport.”

Currently Rutuja is serving as a Bank Officer at Union Bank, and has demonstrably achieved substantial progress in her career. I extend my sincerest best wishes to her for both the upcoming Asian Games and the World Cup in August 2026.

Indian Women’s Hockey Team – 20th Asian Games 2026

Goalkeepers: Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam

Defenders: Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Lalthantluangi, Jyoti, Shilpi Dabas

Midfielders: Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Salima Tete (C), Neha, Deepika Soreng

Forwards: Lalremsiami, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur, Beauty Dungdung