India, Dec. 29 -- After a challenging year marked by injuries, inconsistent performances and missed opportunities, Indian women's hockey drag-flicker Deepika Sehrawat is confident the new season will bring renewed hope and momentum for the national team. The 22-year-old forward, who is set to return to action for Delhi SG Pipers in the Women's Hockey India League (WHIL) after a five-month injury layoff, said the past year had been difficult for the national side.

"Many things will change in the new year. The World Cup qualification will be our first challenge, and then there are the Asian Games," Deepika said PTI Bhasha. She was ruled out of the Asia Cup in August after slipping during a practice session before the team's departure, a se...