Hockey: India Midfielder Neha Hits 200 Caps

AUCKLAND-Hockey India on June 18 congratulated veteran midfielder Neha on completing 200 international appearances for the Indian women’s hockey team during India’s FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup match against Uruguay.

Born in Sonipat, Haryana, Neha took up hockey under the guidance of former India captain Pritam Rani Siwach and made her senior international debut at the FIH Champions Challenge in Glasgow in 2014. Since then, she has become a key figure in India’s midfield, known for her footwork, dodging ability and game awareness.

Neha was part of India’s historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo Olympics and has won medals at the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, FIH Women’s Nations Cup, Asia Cup and Women’s Asian Champions Trophy.

Expressing her happiness on reaching the milestone, Neha said, “I am incredibly happy and excited to achieve the milestone of playing 200 international matches for India. Representing the country is a proud moment for me. I want to say a huge thank you to my mother, my husband, and Pritam Siwach ma’am for always supporting me through thick and thin. I am also deeply grateful to Hockey India, my teammates, and the coaching staff for their constant belief and guidance throughout my career.”

“My hockey journey has seen its fair share of ups and downs, but I always believed in pushing forward and never giving up. Every challenge has only made me stronger as a player and a person. Wearing the Indian jersey is the ultimate motivation for me. I am looking forward to the matches ahead and hope to continue contributing to the team’s success,” she added.

Hockey India President and former India captain Dilip Tirkey said, “Earning 200 international caps is a massive milestone. Neha has been a vital part of our midfield for over a decade. We salute her immense contribution to Indian hockey and wish her continued success.” (IANS)