SG Pipers Retain Star-Studded Squad for Hockey India League 2025
The SG Pipers are gearing up for an exciting Hockey India League (HIL) 2025 season. They’ve just announced their retained list of 17 men’s players, blending top Indian talent with international firepower. This move shows the team’s focus on building a strong core of homegrown stars while adding global expertise in every position.
The coaching team, led by Director of Hockey and Padma Bhushan awardee PR Sreejesh, carefully picked these players. Sreejesh, a legend in Indian hockey, worked hand-in-hand with the staff to lock in this balanced roster.
In a smart trade, the Pipers snagged Welsh star Jacob Draper from Team Gonasika. Draper shone last season, playing in all 10 games and bringing his dynamic skills to the midfield.
Let’s break down the squad by positions. In goal, Argentina’s Tomas Santiago pairs up with India’s Pawan for solid defense. The backline looks tough with Indian defenders Jarmanpreet Singh, Varun Kumar, Rohit, and Manjeet, plus Wales’ Gareth Furlong adding international grit.
Midfield gets a boost from Indian aces Shamsher Singh, Rajkumar Pal, Ankit Pal, and Kingson Singh. They join forces with Australia’s Ky Willott and the newly traded Jacob Draper for a creative and energetic unit.
Up front, Argentina’s Tomas Domene spearheads the attack, supported by India’s Aditya Lalage, Sourabh Anand Khushwaha, and Dilraj Singh. This forward line promises plenty of goals and excitement.
These players didn’t just impress in the HIL last season—they’ve made waves internationally too. Shamsher Singh, a two-time Olympic medallist, returns with his unbeatable spirit and leadership. Jarmanpreet Singh fresh off helping India win the Asia Cup 2025, will anchor the defense. Varun Kumar, who grabbed bronze at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, brings speed and fierce tackles to the mix. Rajkumar Pal stays cool in big moments, like his penalty shootout heroics against Team Gonasika last season and Great Britain at the Olympics. And Tomas Santiago’s experience in goal gives the team extra edge.
Sreejesh shared his thoughts on the retention: "Keeping our core men’s team was key. Last season, we missed six big players, and it threw off our game. Now, this group knows each other inside out. They’ve got the drive and mindset for a winning run. With Olympic heroes like Shamsher, Jarman, Rajkumar, and Varun mixing with eager young guns, we’ve got experience and fire. The vets will guide, the rookies will push hard, and we’ll build smartly with our coaches’ input."
The Pipers also welcome new men’s head coach Tim Oudenaller, a top European tactician known for his success in the Dutch Hoofdklasse and Euro Hockey League. Teaming up with Sreejesh, he’ll bring fresh strategies and mentorship to the franchise.
Oudenaller is pumped about the squad: "These retained players offer balance, depth, and real hunger—everything we need to go deep this season. With the management on board, I see us as title contenders."
With this strong foundation, the SG Pipers enter the HIL 2025 auction ready to fill any gaps and chase glory in the Hockey India League. Fans, get set for some thrilling hockey action!
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