PLAYERS TO WATCH

India will field a largely young team on their return to the elite tournament after eight years and their hopes for a strong showing will rest on these shoulders...

RANI RAMPAL (captain, forward)

With an experience of 213 international matches, the skipper is the most important player of the side. A year before becoming the youngest player to play for India at the 2010 World Cup at the age of 15, Rani had underlined her potential at the 2009 Champions Challenge at Kazan where she scored four goals in the final.

SAVITA PUNIA (vicecaptain, goalkeeper)

Along with Rani Rampal, the 27-year-old goalkeeper Savita Punia is one of the most experienced players in the side. Her combative approach to goalkeeping is a big plus for the side. She doesn’t hesitate to make all possible efforts — however difficult or dangerous — to stop penalty corners.

DEEPIKA THAKUR (defender)

Two-time World Cupper Deepika Thakur is one of the best in defence in the current team. With 219 international appearances, she is also the most experienced player in the side. The 31-year-old will have the responsibility to defend and create counterattacks that will give India the momentum in crunch situations.

SUNITA LAKRA (defender)

The diminutive player is a vital cog in India’s defence. Her sense of position in tackling the rival forwards makes her a respected opponent. Since 2009, she has been an integral part of the side, and her experience should help India handle pressure. She has often been cited as the backbone of the team.

NAVJOT KAUR (forward)

The top scorer at the Under-18 Asia Cup is gaining reputation as a powerful player and should complement the experienced Rani Rampal in the frontline. If she gets going at the London event, India will find a player in form ahead of the Asian Games in Indonesia. So far, she has played 133 international matches.