The second season of the Women’s Hockey India League is set to enhance women’s hockey standards when it takes place in Ranchi from December 28 to January 10, 2026. Following the success of the first edition, which attracted packed audiences and thrilling matches, this season will showcase India’s top players alongside international stars in a fast-paced schedule.
Venue and Format
The women’s league will be held exclusively at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi. Four franchises—Ranchi Royals, SG Pipers, JSW Soorma Hockey Club, and Shrachi Bengal Tigers—will compete for the title. The tournament will follow a double round-robin format, with each team facing the others twice during the league phase. The top two teams will advance to the Grand Final set for January 10, 2026.
Last Season’s Highlights
Last season saw Odisha Warriors clinch the inaugural Women’s Hockey India League title, with JSW Soorma Hockey Club finishing as runners-up in a closely contested final. The upcoming season promises to be equally competitive, especially as JSW Soorma Hockey Club aims to build on their strong league performance and push for the title.
Fans can look forward to seeing both Indian internationals and top players from hockey powerhouses such as the Netherlands, Argentina, Belgium, Australia, Spain, and Great Britain.
Franchise Ambitions
Ranchi Royals will utilize their home advantage in their quest for victory, while Shrachi Bengal Tigers and SG Pipers will also vie for the prestigious title after finishing third and fourth, respectively, last season.
The opening match will feature the hosts, Ranchi Royals, against SG Pipers under the lights on December 28, 2025, kicking off 13 days of thrilling women’s hockey before enthusiastic crowds in Jharkhand. Over the 13 matches, the league aims to highlight fast-paced, aggressive hockey while providing a significant platform for young Indian players to compete at an international level.
Inspiring Future Generations
The second season of the Women’s Hockey India League aims to bolster India’s reputation as a world-class hockey center and encourage young girls to take up the sport.
Player Statements
Ahead of the competition, Ranchi Royals Captain Nikki Pradhan expressed excitement, stating, “We are proud to begin the new season on home turf in Ranchi, where the passion for hockey is unmatched. Our group is excited to set the tone for the league with fearless, attacking hockey from the very first whistle. As captain, my focus is on creating a tight, trusting unit where every player feels empowered to express herself. If we stick to our structure and enjoy the big moments, the results will take care of themselves.”
SG Pipers Captain Navneet Kaur shared her thoughts, saying, “There is a bounce-back mindset within the SG Pipers group this season, and that intent has been visible from the start. The squad is balanced with a blend of international experience and Indian players, which provides depth across positions. Training under Sofie Gierts is structured and demanding. The sessions are clear in purpose, focusing on discipline, defensive organization, and collective responsibility. This has created an environment where players are competitive and aligned with the direction the team is taking.”
Soorma Hockey Club Captain Savita noted, “Coming so close to the title last season has only sharpened our resolve. JSW Soorma Hockey Club has unfinished business in this league, and we are determined to turn last year’s pain into this year’s motivation. We want to inspire fans with our style of hockey and show that Soorma can finish the job this time.” Co-captain Salima Tete added, “For us, it’s about playing with intent every minute. We have the quality across the squad, and if we stay disciplined, control the midfield and back ourselves in key moments, we believe we can go all the way this season.”
Shrachi Bengal Tigers captain Vandana Katariya also remarked, “This is a special group with a strong Bengal identity and a real hunger to prove ourselves against the best. The Tigers will bring speed, flair and a lot of heart to every contest. We respect every opponent, but we fear none. If we stay brave on the ball, defend as a unit and keep our composure in crunch moments, Shrachi Bengal Tigers can be a serious contender for the title.”