From a broken hockey stick to the national stage, daily wager’s daughter Nausheen Naz moves closer to India U-18 squad

Fifteen-year-old Nausheen Naz is training at a national camp alongside players with full kits, even as she continues to borrow equipment due to financial limitations. Her father, Ahfaz Khan, a daily-wage worker earning about Rs 250 a day, has been unable to provide her with a proper hockey stick or gear.

Despite these challenges, the forward from Seoni in Madhya Pradesh has emerged as a promising talent in women’s hockey and is close to securing a place in India’s squad for the Under-18 Asia Cup in Japan, scheduled from May 29.

Early struggles and determination

Nausheen’s journey began four years ago in a small rented shelter in Seoni, located about 380 km from Bhopal. She started playing with a broken hockey stick, which she repeatedly repaired to continue training. Her father recalled that she continued practicing without complaint despite the condition of her equipment.


A significant breakthrough came in 2023 when she was selected by the MP Hockey Academy. The academy provided structured training, equipment and dietary support, which her family could not afford. Her father described the institution as crucial to her development.

Strong performance at national level

Nausheen delivered a notable performance at the 16th sub-junior women’s national championship held in Rajgir, Bihar, where she scored nine goals and finished as the top scorer. She was also named player of the final. Her father, who witnessed the achievement, expressed pride at her progress.

Family support amid challenges

Initially uncertain about her pursuit due to financial hardship, her father now supports her ambitions and has responded firmly to social concerns regarding her training. Nausheen is one of seven siblings, and the family continues to face constraints related to income, food and living space. Her younger sister Sabarika has also joined the academy following talent identification programmes.

Focus on national representation

Nausheen said her primary goal is to represent India. Her progress reflects a broader pattern in Indian hockey, where players from modest backgrounds continue to emerge through determination and access to institutional support.

(With inputs from TOI)