India's women's hockey team kicked off their Asia Cup campaign in spectacular fashion, demolishing Thailand 11-0 in a Pool B encounter in Hangzhou, China, on Friday. The ninth-ranked Indians showcased ruthless dominance against the 30th-ranked Thais, leading 5-0 at halftime and piling on six more goals in the second half to secure a resounding victory.

Defender Udita Duhan led the charge with a brace from penalty corners in the 30th and 52nd minutes, while forward Beauty Dung Dung also netted twice in the 45th and 54th minutes. Other scorers included Mumtaz Khan (7th), Sangita Kumari (10th), Navneet Kaur (16th), Lalremsiami (18th), Thoudam Suman Devi (49th), Sharmila Devi (57th), and Rutaja Dadaso Pisal (60th). The team's clinical finishing and defensive solidity ensured a clean sheet, highlighting their depth despite missing injured veterans—goalkeeper Savita Punia and drag-flicker Deepika.

The tournament, featuring eight teams divided into two pools, sees the top two from each advancing to the Super 4s stage. The Super 4s finalists will clash on September 14, with the winners earning a spot in the 2026 Women's World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands. India, aiming to reclaim continental glory after their 2017 triumph, demonstrated championship pedigree in this opener.

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Coach Janneke Schopman's side will next face a sterner test against Japan on Saturday, followed by Singapore on September 8. This emphatic win boosts morale and sets a strong tone, as India eyes qualification and a potential title defense in a competition vital for global aspirations.

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