The SG Pipers Women Team just boosted its lineup with eight exciting new players from the Hockey India League Season 2 auction. The goal? Build a stronger squad that mixes young talent with seasoned pros, all while keeping a solid Indian core intact.
These additions fill key spots across the field, setting the team up for tough battles ahead. As the team shared in a recent update, the focus was on creating balance and versatility to shine in HIL Season 2.
Captain Navneet Kaur couldn’t hide her excitement about the process. "We approached the auction the right way," she said. "The team stayed super focused, and it felt amazing to help shape the strategy. As players, we’re thrilled that SG Pipers trusted us with this. Our planning was spot on—we targeted flexible athletes who can switch positions easily and work as one unit." She highlighted inputs from players like Deepika and the coach, which made a big difference. Navneet especially praised the signings of Udita, an experienced Indian defender, along with Suman and Preeti. "These three bring national team know-how and will make our group tighter and tougher."
The fresh faces include:
- Udita, a skilled Indian defender with national team caps.
- Lola Riera, Spain’s penalty corner specialist who excels in set pieces.
- Juana Morello, Argentina’s midfielder from the 2024 Paris Olympics bronze medal team.
- Teresa Viana Ache, Uruguay’s captain and a dynamic forward who loves to score.
- Costa Valentina Isabel, an Argentine defender with smart, adaptable play.
- Cristina Cosentino, Argentina’s experienced goalkeeper.
- Thoudam Suman Devi, an Indian defender great at one-on-one marking.
- Preeti Dubey, India’s forward and a Rio 2016 Olympian.
Head Coach Sofie Gierts raved about how these players fit the team’s vision. "Cristina Cosentino was a no-brainer for goalie," she explained. "Her international experience, cool head under pressure, and defensive leadership will guide our backline and fire up the whole squad." Sofie pointed out Deepika and Lola Riera’s scoring prowess for close games, plus Teresa Viana Ache’s creative attacks. "Juana Morello and Costa Valentina Isabel add midfield and defense depth with top-level smarts," she added.
On the Indian talent, Sofie noted, "Players like Udita, Thoudam Suman Devi, Preeti Dubey, Kaitlin Nobbs, and Victoria Sauze bring that crucial national edge—stability, grit, and balance everywhere." She wrapped up with optimism: "This mix of skills, flair, and experience is gold. Now, we build trust and buy-in on the field. If everyone sticks to the plan, I know we can do something amazing. Can’t wait to watch this team grow in HIL Season 2."
With this blend of global stars and homegrown stars, SG Pipers Women Team looks ready to challenge for the top in Hockey India League Season 2. Here’s the full squad breakdown:
Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Sharmila Devi, Teresa Viana Ache, Preeti Dubey
Midfielders: Sunelita Toppo, Ishika, Shileima Chanu, Victoria Sauze, Kaitlin Nobbs, Shilpi Dabas, Juana Morello
Defenders: Jyoti Singh, Manisha, Costa Valentina Isabel, Lola Riera, Udita, Thoudam Suman Devi
Goalkeepers: Bansari Solanki, Cristina Cosentino
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