Pooja Yadav, a 21-year-old from the outskirts of Varanasi, has scripted history by becoming the first woman from the Purvanchal region to earn a call-up to the Indian women’s hockey team.
She has been named in the 26-member squad for the upcoming tour of Australia from April 26 to May 4 at the Perth Hockey Stadium.
Training at the national camp in SAI, Bengaluru since late March, Pooja said, “It felt incredible when I got the news. My parents and siblings were overwhelmed with joy. I hope this moment inspires girls from rural areas to chase their dreams.”
Her journey began in 2015 at a school ground near her home. Despite missing out on junior national selection multiple times, Pooja impressed at the 2025 Senior Women’s National Championship and broke into the senior camp.
“I’m proud to be the first from Purvanchal in the team. Families must support girls in sports — it can change lives,” she added.
Midfielder Neha, her roommate and mentor in the camp, has played a key role in guiding her both on and off the field.
Pooja now aims to capitalise on her first international opportunity and cement her place in the squad for future assignments, including the FIH Pro League.
“Training with senior players has boosted my game. I just want to keep learning and performing,” she said.
