Excitement Builds for Women's Hockey India League as Indian Stars Prepare to Play with Argentine Legends

Thrilling Anticipation for HIL Season 2

New Delhi, Dec 19: Indian women's hockey players Beauty Dung Dung and Sangita Kumari are eagerly looking forward to teaming up with renowned Argentine players Agustina Albertario and Agostina Alonso, who will represent Ranchi Royals in the upcoming Women's Hockey India League (HIL) season 2, commencing on December 28.

Argentina's impressive track record includes a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics in 2022 and a bronze at the Paris Olympics in 2024, making the opportunity to play alongside these accomplished athletes particularly exciting for the Indian duo.

Sangita expressed her admiration for the Argentine players, stating, “Agustina Albertario and Agostina Alonso bring a wealth of experience. I’m thrilled to share the dressing room and play alongside them.”

Beauty added, “Their experience is invaluable. The more we engage with them, the more we can learn.”

Both players are also enthusiastic about competing at home in Ranchi, especially as they prepare for the upcoming Olympic Qualifiers in Hyderabad.

As Ranchi Royals gear up for the second season of HIL, the Jharkhand natives are buzzing with excitement to represent their local franchise.

Since making their international debuts in 2021, Sangita and Beauty have made significant contributions, with Sangita netting 30 goals and Beauty scoring six. They are now ready to embark on this new chapter with Ranchi Royals.

Sangita shared her pride in playing at her home ground, saying, “It’s always special to play in Ranchi, especially now that I’m representing the Ranchi Royals. The local audience is passionate about hockey, which adds to the excitement. It’s even more meaningful as my family will be there to support me.”

Having been part of the Indian team that secured a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games in 2022, Sangita is eagerly anticipating the start of the league.

Beauty echoed her sentiments, expressing her enthusiasm for representing their home team. “Games in Ranchi attract large crowds due to the city's love for hockey. We will strive to win for our fans.”

She also emphasized the importance of HIL in providing young players a chance to compete with top international talent.

“As juniors, we often wondered when we would get our chance at the senior level, but this league allows us to play alongside the best. Raising our standards will benefit the grassroots system,” Beauty noted.

“Women’s hockey is progressing, and we aim to elevate it further. HIL is a fantastic platform for juniors and state players to learn from both women's and men's matches,” she added.

The players highlighted the value of learning from international teammates. “We can gain a lot from foreign players, and they can learn from us too. We’re now more confident in approaching them for advice,” Kumari explained.

With talented young players like Sakshi Rana and Kanika Siwach joining the squad after competing in the Junior Women’s World Cup in Chile, Sangita advised them to enjoy the game.

“For the newcomers, it’s crucial to keep enjoying the sport. My advice is to trust your skills and give it your all,” she said.

The Women’s Hockey India League kicks off on December 28, with Ranchi Royals facing off against the SG Pipers.

All matches will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 3, and DD Sports, and will also be available for live streaming on Waves and the Hockey India League YouTube channel.