India, Aug. 21 -- Seasoned Indian women's hockey team goalkeeper Savita Punia has been ruled out of the Asia Cup with an ankle injury she sustained during the European leg of the Pro League. The 35-year-old has been replaced by Bansari Solanki, who made her debut in the Pro League in June.

Making a comeback into the team are Udita Duhan, Nikki Pradhan, Mumtaz Khan and Sangita Kumari, who is scheduled to play her first match since November 2024.

The Asia Cup will take place in Hangzhou, China from September 5-14 and is of utmost importance for the Salima Tete-led squad as the winner will qualify for the 2026 World Cup in the Netherlands and Belgium.

The 20-member team also includes goalkeeper Bichu Devi Kharibam. The defence will be mar...