7 September 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : India women’s hockey head coach Sjoerd Marijne believes the team has emerged as a serious contender for the Asian Games gold medal, while acknowledging that expectations around the side have risen significantly.
Marijne said India is comfortable carrying those expectations and believes the team has the quality to challenge for the top prize.
India Ready to Embrace Expectations
Marijne said high expectations are not something the Indian team needs to fear.
The coach believes the pressure that comes with being regarded as a medal contender can instead help the players remain focused on the level required to succeed at a major tournament.
India’s recent performances have strengthened the belief that the team can compete against the best sides in Asia.
Gold Medal the Target
With the Asian Games approaching, Marijne has made it clear that India is not entering the competition merely to participate.
The team’s objective will be to challenge for the gold medal, although the coach is aware that the tournament will feature strong opponents and that success will require consistency across the campaign.
Confidence Built Through Recent Performances
India’s growing confidence comes from improvements in both results and performances.
The team has been developing a more competitive style of hockey and has shown greater belief against higher-ranked opponents.
Marijne’s assessment reflects that progress, with the coach describing India as a “very good competitor” for the Asian Games title.
Focus on Consistency
Despite his confidence, Marijne’s message is not simply about ambition.
India will need to maintain its intensity, defensive discipline and attacking efficiency throughout the tournament. A strong start alone will not be enough in a competition where several Asian teams can challenge for the medals.
Building a Stronger Indian Women’s Team
Marijne has played an important role in shaping the current Indian women’s hockey setup.
His focus has included improving the team’s tactical structure, developing younger players and creating greater competition for places within the squad.
The combination of experienced players and emerging talent gives India additional options heading into major tournaments.
Asian Hockey Competition Remains Tough
India’s route to gold is unlikely to be straightforward.
Asian hockey has several competitive teams capable of producing strong performances, meaning India will have to perform consistently rather than rely solely on its reputation.
The team will also have to handle the pressure of being among the favourites.
Marijne Comfortable With High Expectations
Rather than viewing expectations as a burden, Marijne appears comfortable with the attention surrounding the team.
His confidence reflects India’s changing status in women’s hockey, with the side increasingly expected to compete for major honours rather than simply aim for respectable finishes.
A Chance to Strengthen India’s Position
A successful Asian Games campaign would further strengthen India’s position in continental women’s hockey.
Winning gold would also provide valuable momentum for the team’s longer-term ambitions and reinforce the progress made under Marijne’s leadership.
The Challenge Ahead
For now, Marijne’s assessment sets a clear benchmark: India believes it has the ability to challenge for Asian Games gold.
The next step will be converting that confidence into consistent performances when the tournament begins.