Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam is one of India’s most accomplished women’s field hockey players, celebrated for her leadership, resilience, and pivotal role in the national team’s rise.
Early Life and Background
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Full Name: Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam
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Date of Birth: February 25, 1992
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Place of Birth: Imphal, Manipur, India
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Position: Midfielder (Halfback)
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Family: Daughter of Pukhrambam Shyamsundar (driver) and Pukhrambam Ongbi Lata (homemaker); has an elder sister and a younger brother
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Early Inspiration: Began playing hockey at age 11, encouraged by her uncle; trained at Posterior Hockey Academy, Manipur
Career Highlights
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International Debut: 2008 Women’s Hockey Junior Asia Cup, Kuala Lumpur
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Junior Career:
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Captain of India’s junior women’s team that won bronze at the 2013 Junior World Cup in Germany
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Senior Career:
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Over 250 international caps for India by 2025
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Captain of the Indian women’s team at the 2016 Rio Olympics, marking India’s return to the Games after 36 years
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Bronze medalist at the 2014 Asian Games (Incheon)
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Gold medalist at the 2017 Asia Cup (Kakamigahara)
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Bronze medalist at the 2022 Asia Cup (Muscat) and Commonwealth Games
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Gold medalist at the 2022 FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup (Spain) and 2024 Asian Champions Trophy (Rajgir)
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Key contributor to India’s qualification for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and historic fourth-place finish
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Represented India at the 2014 and 2018 Commonwealth Games
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Awards and Recognition
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Arjuna Award: Honored in 2023 for outstanding contributions to Indian hockey
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Role Model: Widely regarded as an inspiration for young athletes, especially women from the North-East
Playing Profile
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Strengths:
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Calm, tactical leader with strong defensive and distribution skills
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Resilient, having overcome significant injuries and setbacks
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Known for composure under pressure and ability to marshal the midfield
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Style:
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Versatile midfielder, valued for her work rate, vision, and leadership on and off the field
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Notable Facts
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Employed as a senior ticket collector with Central Railways in Mumbai since 2010, balancing her professional and athletic careers
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Her great-grandfather was a successful polo player, and her family has deep sporting roots
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Led the team through a period of resurgence, playing a crucial role in India’s return to the Olympic stage and consistent international success
FAQs About Sushila Chanu
What position does Sushila Chanu play?
Midfielder (Halfback)
How many international caps does she have?
Over 250 as of 2025
What are her main achievements?
Olympic captain (2016), Asian Games bronze (2014), Asia Cup gold (2017), Arjuna Awardee (2023), multiple international medals
What is her playing style?
Tactical, composed, and resilient midfielder with strong leadership
Conclusion
Sushila Chanu is a cornerstone of Indian women’s hockey, renowned for her leadership, international achievements, and inspirational journey from Manipur to the world stage. Her legacy continues to inspire the next generation of Indian athletes.
