Who are the captains, key Indian and overseas stars for four franchises – a quick guide for second season

The second edition of Women’s HIL comes at a critical juncture for Indian hockey. There is a lot of uncertainty surrounding the national team, having missed out on World Cup qualification through Asia Cup and the subsequent departure of head coach Harendra Singh under rather controversial circumstances. A World Cup qualifier in Hyderabad in March offers the last chance to qualify for the marquee tournament, and players would be hoping to make their mark across four teams.
SG Pipers

Captain: Navneet Kaur
Key Indian player: Deepika
Key overseas player: Kaitlin Nobbs (AUS)

What’s changed: A coaching overhaul after finishing last in the first edition sees Belgium’s Sofie Gierts take over the reins. She has the rare dinction of having coached a men’s team in Belgium’s top division with Royal Uccle. With Navneet and Deepika, Pipers have opted for continuity in Indian talent.
Ranchi Royals

Captain: Nikki Pradhan
Key Indian player: Neha Goyal
Key overseas player: Agostina Alonso (ARG)

What’s changed: Replacing inaugural season winners Odisha Warriors, the Ranchi franchisee had Harendra Singh at the auction table earlier this year. But since departing his role with the Indian team, he has switched to coaching the men’s Ranchi side. Junior national coach Tushar Khandker will guide the side that will be led a local stalwart in Nikki.
Soorma Hockey Club

Captains: Salima Tete, Savita Punia
Key Indian player: Jyoti
Key overseas player: Maria Jose Granatto (ARG)

What’s changed: The finals of the first season, Soorma Hockey Club have perhaps the most settled set-up across two seasons. They retained their Indian core and former India international goalkeeper Jude Menezes returns as head coach. The key change that could make them title contenders is the addition of double-Olympic medall Maria Jose Granatto for Rs 34 lakhs.
Shrachi Bengal Tigers

Captain: Vandana Katariya
Key Indian player: Lalremsiami
Key overseas player: Maria Jose Granatto (ARG)

What’s changed: Deepak Thakur, former India star who was the assant coach of the men’s team for the champions last season, takes over as the women’s head coach from Glenn Turner. The Tigers splashed the cash for the costliest signing at the auction for the second time in a row, this time bringing on board one of the greatest drag flickers in the women’s game, Agustina Gorzelany for Rs 42 lakhs