Hockey India League 2026: Ranchi Royals and Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons Prepare for Action

As the Hockey India League 2026 season approaches, the Ranchi Royals and Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons are shaping their teams with distinct strategies. The Royals focus on speed and versatility, led by Manpreet Singh, while the Dragons emphasize defensive strength under captain Amit Rohidas. Both teams are gearing up for their opening matches, aiming to make a strong impression in the league. Discover the squad details and tactical approaches of these two franchises as they prepare for an exciting season ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 1, 2026, 17:19 IST

Hockey India League 2026: Team Strategies Emerge

As the 2026 season of the Hockey India League (HIL) approaches, both the Ranchi Royals and Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons are establishing distinct tactical frameworks. The Royals are focusing on speed, adaptability, and aggressive transitions, while the Dragons are prioritizing a robust defensive strategy supported by exceptional goalkeeping and effective penalty-corner tactics.

Ranchi Royals: Emphasizing Speed and Flexibility

The Ranchi Royals, the latest franchise to join the league, have replaced the former Team Gonasika and assembled a squad that highlights midfield flexibility and rapid field movement. Under the leadership of Manpreet Singh, who recently achieved the milestone of 400 international caps, the team is poised for success. Head Coach Harendra Singh has paired Manpreet with Belgium's Tom Boon, the 2025 FIH Player of the Year, forming a dynamic midfield duo capable of dictating match pace.

To bolster their defense, the Royals have recruited Belgian defender Maxime Van Oots and Australian Tim Howard, alongside seasoned Indian defender Nilam Sanjeep Xess. Offensively, they will depend on Mandeep Singh's finishing skills and the youthful vigor of Araijeet Singh Hundal.

The Ranchi Royals will kick off their season on January 4 against the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai.

Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons: Focus on Defensive Strength

The Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons are building on their semifinal performance from 2025, emphasizing strong circle defense and set-piece effectiveness. Captain Amit Rohidas, recognized as one of the most reliable defenders globally, leads a team that features one of the league's top goalkeeping units. Ireland's David Harte, a two-time FIH Goalkeeper of the Year, teams up with Prince Deep Singh, who showcased his skills during the 2025 Junior World Cup shootouts.

In terms of offense, the Dragons will continue to rely on Australia's Blake Govers, known for his penalty-corner prowess. He is supported by Mohammed Raheel Mouseen in midfield and Germany's Paul Kaufmann, who brings structure and discipline to the team. The Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons will begin their season at home on January 3 against the Hyderabad Toofans, looking to capitalize on their home advantage.

Ranchi Royals Squad

The Ranchi Royals roster includes: Suraj Karkera, Pankaj Kumar Rajak, Amir Ali, Joshua Beltz (Australia), Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Anmol Ekka, Manpreet Singh, Tom Boon (Belgium), Vishnukant Singh, Yashdeep Siwach, Mustapha Cassiem (South Africa), Araijeet Singh Hundal, Mandeep Singh, Tim Howard (Australia), Maxime Van Oots (Belgium), Ravneet Singh, Manmeet Singh Rai, Jack Waller (England), Sam Lane (New Zealand), Ashish Purti.

Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons Squad

The Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons lineup features: David Harte (Ireland), Princedeep Singh, Amit Rohidas, Paul Kaufmann (Germany), Sander de Wijn (Netherlands), Anand Lakra, Pruthvi GM, Tom Sorsby (Great Britain), Tom Craig (Australia), Mohammed Raheel Mouseen, Sheshe Gowda, Chandan Yadav, Arun J, Adrohit Ekka, Sushil Dhanwar, Blake Govers (Australia), Selvam Karthi, Nathan Ephraums (Australia), Uttam Singh, K Selvaraj.