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SG Pipers Arrive in Ranchi: Can Their Star-Studded Squad Win HIL 2025-26?

The SG Pipers women's hockey team has arrived in Ranchi, buzzing with determination for the upcoming Hockey India League. Led by the experienced captain Navneet Kaur and new head coach Sofie Gierts, the squad is a blend of seasoned international talent. Players like defender Udita, fresh from a tournament-winning performance, add significant strength to the lineup. The team is now focused on final preparations to convert their positive build-up into success on the turf.

Key Points: SG Pipers Squad Arrives in Ranchi for Hockey India League 2025-26

  • Head coach Sofie Gierts joins the team, bringing new leadership and structure for the high-pressure league
  • Captain Navneet Kaur leads with over 200 international caps and proven high-pressure match experience
  • Defender Udita anchors the backline after a stellar season as Asia Cup 2025 Player of the Tournament
  • The squad boasts a diverse mix of international players, providing tactical depth and versatility
3 min read

HIL 2025-26: SG Pipers squad arrive in Ranchi

The SG Pipers women's team, led by Navneet Kaur and coach Sofie Gierts, arrives in Ranchi with renewed focus for the upcoming Hockey India League season.

"It feels great to be part of this talented group in person, especially in a hockey-crazy city like Ranchi. - Head Coach Sofie Gierts"

Ranchi, Dec 20

The SG Pipers women have entered the Ranchi turf with renewed determination as the countdown to the Hockey India League 2025–26 begins, scheduled from December 28, 2025, to January 10, 2026. With their sticks ready and focus intense, their arrival signals the start of an important phase in what promises to be a swift, high-pressure competitive tournament.

Head coach Sofie Gierts brings new leadership to the group, joining the team in Ranchi before the season. She is well-supported by Indian hockey veteran and ex-India captain Helen Mary. Her presence offers clarity and structure as the team faces a period of close competition and the need to build momentum decisive.

The Pipers squad brings strong recent international form into the league. Captain Navneet Kaur leads from the front, having surpassed 200 international caps in 2025, cementing her status as one of India’s most seasoned attackers. Over the past year, Navneet has been a reliable figure for India in high-pressure matches, orchestrating the forward line and establishing a competitive edge in the attacking circle.

Udita stands at the back, anchoring the defence after one of her most successful seasons. She was named Player of the Tournament at the Women’s Asia Cup 2025, showcasing both defensive strength and attacking prowess by scoring three penalty corner goals and managing vital defensive duties against top opponents.

The squad combines international experience and diversity, with players from various hockey nations. This mix provides the Pipers with depth in different positions and tactical versatility, which is vital in a short league where recovery time is limited and adaptability can determine the result.

Speaking after joining the team in Ranchi, head coach Sofie said, “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.”

Speaking ahead of the season, captain Navneet Kaur said, “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.”

The SG Pipers women have a clear goal this season. Based on past results, they focus on more precise execution, winning critical moments in both circles, and remaining competitive throughout each quarter. With the league back in Ranchi, the Pipers are committed to rebounding with purpose and converting their preparations into points as soon as the game starts.

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

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
The squad looks balanced with a good mix of Indian and international players. Udita was a rock at the Asia Cup! Hope the home crowd in Ranchi gives them massive support. The tournament schedule is tight, fitness will be key.
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Aman W
Great to see Helen Mary involved! Her experience from her playing days will be a huge asset for the coaching staff. Wishing the team all the best. Just a small note - hope the foreign players adapt quickly to the conditions. Sometimes that can be a challenge in a short league.
S
Sarah B
As a hockey fan, it's fantastic to see such a diverse and talented group coming together. Coach Sofie seems to have a clear vision. The focus on winning critical moments is spot on. Can't wait for the first whistle on the 28th!
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Vikram M
The pipeline of talent from Jharkhand continues! Sunelita Toppo and others representing the state on home turf. This league is crucial for giving our players high-pressure match practice. Hope they go all the way! 🥅
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Kriti O
Solid squad on paper. But the real test begins now. The article mentions "rebounding with purpose" - seems like they are carrying a point to prove from last season. Execution in the circle will be everything. Best of luck, Pipers!

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