The SG Pipers women are preparing to make their mark in the Hockey India League 2025–26, scheduled from December 28, 2025, to January 10, 2026. With renewed determination and focused minds, the team steps onto the Ranchi turf, heralding the start of an important phase in what promises to be a competitive tournament.
New Leadership
Head coach Sofie Gierts brings fresh leadership to the group, joining the team in Ranchi ahead of the season. She is supported by Indian hockey veteran and former India captain, Helen Mary, whose presence adds clarity and structure as the team gears up for close competition and aims to build crucial momentum.
Strong Squad
The Pipers boast impressive recent international form. Captain Navneet Kaur leads the team and has surpassed 200 international caps in 2025, solidifying her status as one of India’s most experienced attackers. Over the past year, she has been a cornerstone for India in high-stakes matches, orchestrating play in the forward line and enhancing their competitive edge in the attacking circle.
Udita anchors the defence after an exceptional season, where she was named Player of the Tournament at the Women’s Asia Cup 2025. She showcased both defensive strength and attacking flair by scoring three penalty corner goals while effectively fulfilling vital defensive responsibilities against formidable opponents.
The squad is characterized by a blend of international experience and diversity, featuring players from various hockey nations. This mix provides the Pipers with depth and tactical versatility, crucial in a fast-paced league where recovery time is limited and adaptability often decides the outcome.
Coaching Insights
After joining the team in Ranchi, head coach Sofie expressed, “It feels great to be part of this talented group in person, especially in a hockey-crazy city like Ranchi. The team is well-balanced and every player is keen to get started. We have an exciting mix of players from different countries, and that diversity will be one of our biggest strengths. The focus now is on starting our preparation the right way and ensuring we are united and ready when the league begins on the 28th.”
Captain Navneet Kaur also shared her thoughts ahead of the season, stating, “The preparation heading into this season has been positive, and there is a strong sense of clarity and confidence within the group. The players are motivated, focused, and excited about what lies ahead.”
Season Goals
The SG Pipers women have set clear objectives for the season. Drawing from past performances, they aim for precise execution, winning critical moments in both circles, and maintaining competitiveness throughout each quarter. With the league returning to Ranchi, the Pipers are committed to turning their preparations into points right from the start of the tournament.
SG Pipers Women’s Squad | HIL Season 2
Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Sharmila Devi, Teresa Viana Ache, Preeti Dubey, Priscila Jardel Mateos
Midfielders: Sunelita Toppo, Ishika, Shileima Chanu, Kaitlin Nobbs, Shilpi Dabas, Juana Morello
Defenders: Jyoti Singh, Manisha, Valentina Costa Biondi, Lola Riera, Udita, Thoudam Suman Devi
Goalkeepers: Bansari Solanki, Cristina Cosentino