SG Pipers Gear Up for HIL 2026: Insights from KY Willott and Jarmanpreet Singh

As the Hockey India League (HIL) 2026 approaches, SG Pipers vice-captain KY Willott and captain Jarmanpreet Singh share their insights on the team's preparations. With a focus on refining strategies and adapting to international styles of play, the team is set to kick off their campaign against HIL GC. Learn more about their training, squad details, and the new league format that promises an exciting season ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 5, 2026, 02:05 IST

SG Pipers Prepare for HIL 2026 Season

New Delhi, January 4: KY Willott, the vice-captain of SG Pipers, provided an update on the team's readiness for the upcoming Hockey India League (HIL) 2026 season. Captain Jarmanpreet Singh emphasized the significance of the league in offering young Indian hockey players the chance to gain experience by competing alongside international talent.

The Delhi franchise is set to launch its HIL 2026 journey on January 5 against HIL GC, while the league officially begins with the Tamil Nadu Dragons facing off against the Hyderabad Toofans.

During a recent media session, Willott expressed confidence in the team's preparations, highlighting their focus on crucial aspects such as penalty corner defense, attacking strategies, and team formations ahead of their inaugural match.

“Our preparation has been progressing well. Prior to my arrival, we had already engaged in a practice match, and since then, we have made significant improvements. However, there are still key areas that require attention. Overall, we are on track for our first match tomorrow. Training has been productive, and we have been refining our penalty corner strategies and formations,” Willott stated.

Jarmanpreet Singh pointed out that each team possesses a unique playing style, and the HIL provides players with the opportunity to experience various international tactics. He stressed the importance of adapting to teammates from different countries, which offers junior players valuable insights into global hockey methodologies.

“Every team has its distinct style. For instance, Australia, Holland, and Belgium each have their own approaches, just as India does. The most thrilling aspect of the HIL is the chance to play alongside international players, each bringing their unique style. The ability of all players to adapt and work together is essential. Nevertheless, the language of hockey remains universal,” he remarked.

“Competing with players from other nations also greatly benefits junior members, as it provides them with a deeper understanding of how teams worldwide operate and how individual players approach the game,” he added.

SG Pipers Squad for HIL 2026:

Indian Players: Pawan, Rupinder Pal Singh, Varun Kumar, Manjeet, Rohit, Jarmanpreet Singh, Ankit Pal, Raj Kumar Pal, Thokchom Kingson Singh, Shamsher Singh, Aditya Lalage, Dilraj Singh, Sourabh Anand Khushwaha

International Players: Tomas Santiago (ARG), Bram Van Battum (NED), Gareth Furlong (GBR), KY Willott (AUS), Jacob Draper (GBR), Tomas Domene (ARG), Roman Duvekot (BEL).

The HIL 2026 season will feature a single round-robin format, with the top four teams progressing to the knockout stages, a change from the previous edition's two-group format. In the playoffs, the top two teams will face off in Qualifier 1, with the winner advancing to the final and the loser entering Qualifier 2. The second team in Qualifier 2 will be determined by the winner of Eliminator 1, which will involve the teams ranked third and fourth in the league standings.

The eight teams participating in the Men's HIL include defending champions Shrachi Bengal Tigers, Hyderabad Toofans, Soorma Hockey Club, SG Pipers, Tamil Nadu Dragons, Vedanta Kalinga Lancers, Ranchi Royals, and HIL GC, which has replaced UP Rudras.