Savita Punia has created a new milestone in Indian women’s hockey by becoming the most-capped player in the history of the national team. The Indian goalkeeper achieved the record on September 21, 2026, during India’s Pool B match against Indonesia at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.

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Savita Punia surpassed the previous record of 320 senior international appearances, held by former Indian striker Vandana Katariya. The achievement marks an important moment in Savita’s long international career and highlights her contribution to Indian women’s hockey.

Savita Punia Breaks the 320-Cap Record

Savita Punia had already equalled Vandana Katariya’s record of 320 international appearances on September 20, 2026. She reached the mark during India’s opening Asian Games match against Uzbekistan, in which India recorded a 19-0 victory.

One day later, Savita made her next appearance against Indonesia and moved beyond the 320-cap mark. This made her the player with the highest number of senior international appearances in Indian women’s hockey.

The milestone is particularly significant because it reflects more than a single tournament. Savita has remained part of India’s senior team for many years and has represented the country in major international competitions.

What Does an International Cap Mean?

In international sport, a cap represents an appearance for a national team in an officially recognised match. In field hockey, senior international caps are counted from recognised matches played for the national side.

These appearances can come in competitions such as the Asian Games, FIH Hockey Pro League, World Cups, Olympic Games and other recognised international tournaments.

For Savita Punia, reaching more than 320 caps means she has spent many years competing at the highest level of international women’s hockey.

Savita Punia’s International Career

Savita Punia made her senior international debut in 2009. Since then, she has become one of the most experienced players in the Indian women’s hockey team.

Her career has included appearances in major international competitions and important periods of development for Indian women’s hockey.

Savita has also been part of the Indian team during its successful run at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where the women’s team reached the semi-finals and finished fourth. It was India’s best-ever Olympic result in women’s hockey.

Her long career has allowed her to play alongside several generations of Indian players and take part in the team’s development over more than a decade.

300th International Appearance

Savita Punia reached another major career milestone in February 2025, when she completed her 300th international appearance.

The milestone came during an FIH Hockey Pro League match against the Netherlands. Reaching 300 appearances itself placed Savita among the most experienced players in international women’s hockey.

Her subsequent rise to more than 320 appearances has now placed her at the top of India’s women’s hockey appearance record.

Vandana Katariya’s Previous Record

Before Savita Punia, the record for the most senior international appearances in Indian women’s hockey belonged to Vandana Katariya.

Vandana, who played as a forward, retired from international hockey in April 2025. She finished her career with 320 international caps and 158 goals.

She was one of the most important attacking players in Indian women’s hockey and represented India in major international competitions.

Savita and Vandana played in different positions, with Savita serving as a goalkeeper and Vandana contributing mainly as a forward. Their records therefore reflect different roles on the hockey field, but both have made significant contributions to the national team.

The Wall of India

Savita Punia is widely known by the nickname “The Wall of India” because of her role as a goalkeeper.

The goalkeeper has a crucial responsibility in hockey. She must stop shots from opponents, organise the defence and make quick decisions during attacks.

Over the years, Savita’s experience and performances have made her one of the familiar faces of Indian women’s hockey. Her leadership and knowledge of international competition have also been valuable to younger players entering the national team.

Hockey India Announces Cash Reward

Following Savita Punia’s record-breaking appearance, Hockey India announced a cash reward of ₹10 lakh to recognise her achievement.

The reward marks the importance of the milestone in Indian hockey. Savita’s record also comes at a time when women’s hockey in India is receiving greater attention following strong performances at international tournaments.

Recognition of experienced players can also help highlight the importance of long-term careers in professional sport.

Savita Punia and the Asian Games 2026

The record was achieved during the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. India entered the tournament with expectations of competing strongly in women’s hockey.

Savita’s record therefore came during an important international event rather than an ordinary fixture. Her appearance against Indonesia added another chapter to her long career with the national team.

The Asian Games remain an important competition for Indian hockey because the tournament brings together leading teams from across Asia.

Savita Punia Receives Padma Shri

Savita Punia was also honoured with the Padma Shri in 2026 for her contribution to Indian sport.

The Padma Shri is one of India’s civilian honours and recognises distinguished contributions in different fields. Savita receiving the award adds another major recognition to a career that has included more than 300 international appearances.

Her latest record and national honour together underline the long-term contribution she has made to Indian women’s hockey.

A Milestone for Indian Women’s Hockey

Savita Punia’s record comes during a period in which Indian women’s hockey has gained greater visibility. The team’s fourth-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics was followed by continued participation in major international competitions, including the FIH Hockey Pro League and Asian Games.

Savita has been part of this modern phase of Indian hockey. Her career connects the team’s earlier generation with its current group of players.

By moving beyond 320 international appearances, Savita Punia has established a new appearance record for Indian women’s hockey and added another significant milestone to her long international career.