Women’s Hockey India League: HIL helped take men’s hockey to next level, will have similar impact on women’s team- Savita Punia

Women’s Hockey India League: HIL helped take men’s hockey to next level, will have similar impact on women’s team- Savita Punia

Delhi SG Pipers will play Odisha Warriors in the opening match of the women’s Hockey India League on Sunday at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Hockey Stadium in Ranchi.

The venue has hosted top world events such as the FIH Olympic Qualifiers and the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy.

Navneet Kaur, captain of Delhi SG Pipers said, “We are very excited that the Women’s HIL is finally starting and we (Delhi SG Pipers) are getting to play the first match.

“Compared to other teams, I believe we are quite a young squad and there will be a lot of learnings from them and they will also have a lot to learn as the league progresses. We have prepared well and will take it match-by-match.” 

Neha Goyal, captain of the Odisha Warriors, emphasized the league’s financial benefits. She stated that the league will financially stabilize the players, especially those yet to make the Indian team.

On the other hand, Udita, captain of the Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, highlighted the league’s value for young players. “We are getting to play alongside some of the best players in the world. It is a great opportunity for the upcoming generation of players to showcase their talent,” said the 26-year-old defender.

Salima Tete, co-captain of Soorma Hockey Club, urged local fans to support the league. “Our target is to inspire more youngsters to come up in the sport by showcasing the best hockey. I urge all the hockey fans in the state to come and support us,” she said.

Savita, co-captain of Soorma Hockey Club, highlighted the broader impact of the league, drawing parallels with the success of the men’s team.

“From the success of the men’s team over the past decade, we have seen how important HIL can be for us. We want to express our gratitude to Hockey India for this initiative to introduce women’s HIL. Top players from top teams are getting to share the dressing room, and dining room, and exchange ideas and thoughts on the sport. This has helped men’s hockey a lot in terms of taking their game to the next level, and I believe it will have a similar impact on the women’s team as well,” said the former India women’s team captain.

The opening ceremony of the league will take place on Sunday at 7:30 pm IST.