Ranchi Royals Prepare for Exciting Season in Hero Women's Hockey India League
Ranchi Royals Set to Shine in Hero HIL
New Delhi, December 19: The Ranchi Royals are gearing up for the upcoming season of the Hero Women’s Hockey India League (HIL), which kicks off on December 28. Two promising talents from Jharkhand, Sangita Kumari and Beauty Dung Dung, are thrilled about the chance to represent their local franchise in their hometown, as stated in a recent announcement.
Both players made their international debut for India in 2021 and have since made significant contributions on the global stage. Sangita has netted 30 goals, while Beauty has added six to her tally.
As they prepare to play for the Ranchi Royals in the Hero HIL, Kumari, who was part of the Indian team that secured a bronze medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, expressed her excitement: “Playing at my home ground is a source of pride. It’s always special to compete in Ranchi, especially now that I’m representing the Ranchi Royals. The local fans are passionate about hockey, which adds to the thrill for us players. It’s particularly meaningful for me as my family will be there to support me.”
Sharing similar sentiments, Dung Dung expressed her eagerness to play for her home team. “Games in Ranchi always attract large crowds due to the city's love for hockey. Since this is our home ground, we are determined to give our best to secure victories,” she stated.
The midfielder also emphasized the importance of the Hero HIL in providing young athletes with the opportunity to compete alongside some of the world’s top players. “As junior players, we often wonder when we’ll get our chance at the senior level, but this league allows us to play with elite athletes from around the world. Elevating our standards at this level will undoubtedly enhance the grassroots system,” she noted.
Women’s hockey is gaining momentum, and we aim to push it further. The Hero HIL serves as an excellent platform for both junior and state players, offering invaluable learning experiences from both women’s and men’s matches,” Dung Dung added.
Both athletes recognize the benefits of interacting with international players to enhance their skills. “There’s so much we can learn from foreign players, and they can also gain insights from us. We’re eager to ask them for advice on techniques and skills,” Kumari remarked.
“Initially, we felt intimidated, but now we approach international players with confidence. When we struggle to execute a skill or convert a chance, we seek their guidance, and they are always willing to help. Sometimes, they even ask us questions,” Dung Dung shared.
Both players are excited about the opportunity to play alongside Agustina Albertario and Agostina Alonso, two renowned Argentine players who earned a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics in 2022 and a bronze at the Paris Olympics in 2024.
Kumari expressed her admiration for the Argentine stars: “Agustina Albertario and Agostina Alonso bring a wealth of experience. I’m thrilled to share the dressing room and play alongside them.”
“They have more experience and have played more matches, which is something we can learn from. The more we engage with them, the better it will be for our development,” Dung Dung added.
With talented young players like Sakshi Rana and Kanika Siwach, who recently participated in the Junior Women’s World Cup in Chile, the Ranchi Royals have a promising squad.
Kumari offered advice to the newcomers: “For the young players joining the team, it’s essential to enjoy the game and continue doing what they love. My advice is to trust their skills and techniques and give their best effort.”
The Hero Women’s Hockey India League is set to commence on December 28, with the Ranchi Royals facing off against the SG Pipers.