Ranchi Royals eye strong start at home as Women’s HIL Season 2 begins

Backed by passionate home support and a renewed identity, Ranchi Royals will look to stamp their authority when Season 2 of the Women’s Hockey India League (HIL) gets underway at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro Turf Stadium here on Sunday. The hosts are among the early favourites in a compact but fiercely competitive four-team tournament that also features former runners-up JSW Soorma Hockey Club, Delhi SG Pipers and Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers.

The spotlight will firmly be on Ranchi as the entire tournament is being staged at a single venue over 13 days, with the final scheduled for January 10. The league will follow a double round-robin format, with each team facing the others twice before the top two qualify for the title clash.

Ranchi Royals enter the season amid high expectations after replacing Odisha Warriors, the inaugural champions who withdrew following Season 1. While the franchise name has changed, much of the core remains intact, allowing the team to retain continuity while embracing a fresh identity rooted in Jharkhand’s rich hockey culture.

Led by India international Nikki Pradhan, the Royals are keen to make an early statement when they take on Delhi SG Pipers in the opening match under lights on Sunday. Pradhan said the team’s focus would be on structure, trust and fearless hockey.

“Playing at home is special. The support here gives us energy and belief. We want to play attacking hockey, trust our systems and back each other in big moments,” Pradhan said, adding that creating a confident and united group would be key to success.

JSW Soorma Hockey Club, finalists last season, will once again be among the strongest contenders. Still hurting from a narrow loss to Odisha Warriors in the previous final, the side is determined to go one step further this time. India goalkeeper Savita, a senior figure in the squad, said the disappointment of last season has only strengthened the team’s resolve.

“We came very close last year, and that has stayed with us. There is unfinished business. We want to turn that pain into motivation and finish the job this season,” Savita said. Co-captain Salima Tete echoed the sentiment, stressing the importance of discipline and control in key phases of matches.

Delhi SG Pipers, captained by experienced India forward Navneet Kaur, are aiming for a strong comeback after an underwhelming campaign last season. Navneet said the team has adopted a “bounce-back mindset” under coach Sofie Gierts, with a clear focus on defensive organisation and collective responsibility.

Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, led by Vandana Katariya, will rely on speed, flair and fearlessness to challenge the more fancied sides. Katariya said her team carries a strong Bengal identity and is eager to prove itself against top opposition.

All four teams boast a blend of Indian internationals and top overseas players from hockey powerhouses such as the Netherlands, Argentina, Belgium, Australia, Spain and Great Britain, ensuring a high standard of competition.

Beyond the title race, the league also serves as a crucial platform for Indian players to fine-tune their skills ahead of a busy international calendar, culminating in the Asian Games in Japan in 2026. With national selectors closely tracking performances, intensity levels are expected to remain high throughout the tournament.

As the Women’s HIL returns to Ranchi, the stage is set for fast-paced action, emerging rivalries and a battle for supremacy, with the home team hoping the crowd can push them all the way.