India, April 1 -- Vandana Katariya, the most experienced Indian women's hockey player, on Tuesday decided to call it a day and make way for youngsters as Hockey India (HI) prepares to build the team for the World Cup and Asian Games - both in 2026 - and eventually the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

With 320 international caps and 158 goals in a span of 13 years, the 32-year-old striker's story is a journey of sheer grit and resilience that saw the 32-year-old emerge from socio-economic backwardness to guide India to successive Olympic Games after a gap of 36 years.

Speaking from Mumbai, the Haridwar resident discusses what led to her decision, her journey with the Indian team and the newer crop of forwards. Excerpts:

How did you come to th...