“Our Fighting Spirit Must Be Visible”: Salima Tete Ahead of the World Cup

India head into the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup carrying the confidence of a successful run in recent months. After lifting the FIH Nations Cup in New Zealand and securing qualification for the World Cup, the team now turns its attention to the biggest challenge of the season. Leading them is captain Salima Tete, who has emerged as one of the driving forces of this young Indian side. In an exclusive conversation with RevSportz, Salima speaks about India’s preparations, the challenge of a difficult group, the impact of head coach Sjoerd Marijne’s return, the blend of youth and experience in the squad, and the responsibility of captaining the national team.

Rahul: Salima, first of all, how has the preparation been? You will be leading India at the Hockey World Cup. How excited are you, and how has becoming captain changed your mindset?

Salima: Our preparation has been going really well. We have been training in Bengaluru for the last month and everyone has been working very hard. We have completed everything we wanted to in training and now we are looking forward to the tournament.

Of course, we are excited, but there is also a bit of nervousness because it is such a big tournament. We have some new players in the squad, so it is a challenge to build combinations, but we have developed good bonding within the team. Everyone understands each other’s strengths, whether it is speed or skill, and that helps us.

Being captain is not easy. You have to lead the team while also focusing on your own game. But I see it as a positive responsibility. I want to inspire the younger players and show them that taking responsibility helps you grow. Every player in our team shares responsibility. It is not just the captain’s job. We support each other, motivate each other after mistakes and always stay positive. That connection within the team is our biggest strength.

Rahul: India has been drawn in a tough group with England, China and South Africa. What are your expectations from the group stage?

Salima: It is definitely a challenging group. South Africa have improved a lot, and China and England are both very strong teams. But we believe that if we play together as a team and execute our plans, we can beat anyone.

Our focus is on keeping possession, making the most of our opportunities inside the circle and converting our chances. We don’t want to waste scoring opportunities. We are working on that every day. The challenge is tough, but we are approaching it positively. If we play our best hockey, other teams will know that India can compete with anyone.

Rahul: Your head coach, Sjoerd Marijne, has returned to lead the team. What changes have you noticed since he came back?

Salima: The biggest change has been in our mindset. The coach always tells us that he wants to win and that we should never accept defeat easily. Even if we lose after playing well, our fighting spirit should always be visible.

He constantly reminds us that no matter who the opponent is, we must step onto the field believing we can compete and win. That mentality has become a big part of our preparation.

Rahul: This squad has a good mix of experienced and young players. How do you see the balance within the team?

Salima: We have a very balanced squad. There are experienced players like Savita Punia, Navneet, Deepika and Susheela Chanu, along with several younger players.

The seniors help guide the juniors, and the juniors bring fresh energy. We all have a good connection with one another, and that togetherness is very important for us.

Rahul: India won the Nations Cup in New Zealand, where penalty corner conversion was crucial. Are you working separately on drag-flicking and penalty corners?

Salima: Yes, we are. We have dedicated sessions for penalty corners and drag-flicking once or twice every week.

Some players have returned after rehabilitation and are improving steadily. We have good drag-flickers, good hitters and players who can finish opportunities. We are confident that if we defend well and create chances, we can convert them into goals.

Rahul: Apart from the head coach, how important has the role of the support staff been?

Salima: The support staff are like family to us. They are always there whenever we need them.

Whether it is Wayne Lombard, Takuma or Mathias Vila, each of them has a specific role. They help us understand where we need to improve and give us constant feedback.

We also train against the men’s team during practice. They push us physically and mentally, which helps us improve. That support has played a huge role in our preparation.

Rahul: Your journey began in a small village in Jharkhand, and now you are leading India at the Hockey World Cup. What does this moment mean to you and your family?

Salima: In the beginning, it was difficult because I was very young and suddenly had so much responsibility. But now I am learning every day and trying to become a better leader.

My family is very happy. Coming from a small village and representing India is an emotional moment for all of us. My family has sacrificed so much for me. I am the first person in my family to have a job, and my sister Mahima is also playing hockey.

Everything I do is for my family and for India. I want to make them proud.

As captain, I also want to support every player. Not everyone has a good day in every match, but if I can motivate my teammates and keep them positive, that is one of my biggest responsibilities.

Rahul: Finally, India begin their Hockey World Cup campaign against China on August 16. What message would you like to give to the fans?

Salima: I would request everyone to watch our matches and support us. We need your encouragement and your blessings. Your support means a lot to us, and we hope you will cheer us on throughout the tournament.

Rahul: Thank you for your time, Salima. Best wishes for the Hockey World Cup. We’ll be there from RevSportz to support and cover the tournament.

Salima: Thank you.

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