Who Will Lead SG Pipers at Hockey India League?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Jarmanpreet Singh and Navneet Kaur are the newly appointed captains of SG Pipers.
- Ky Willott and Kaitlin Nobbs serve as vice-captains for their respective teams.
- Both captains have demonstrated leadership qualities and significant contributions to their teams.
- The teams aim to combine junior and senior players for a competitive edge.
- Past performances of the captains enhance expectations for the upcoming season.
New Delhi, Dec 3 (NationPress) The SG Pipers, a franchise in the Hockey India League, have officially named defender Jarmanpreet Singh and forward Navneet Kaur as the captains of their men's and women's teams for the upcoming league season.
Jarmanpreet will take the helm of the men’s squad, with Australian midfielder Ky Willott stepping in as vice-captain.
On the women's side, star forward Navneet continues her role as captain, paired with Kaitlin Nobbs from Australia, who will serve as vice-captain in her inaugural season with the Pipers.
Last season, Jarmanpreet distinguished himself as a key player for SG Pipers, and his significant role in India’s Asia Cup 2025 victory further highlights his readiness to lead.
“I appreciate the coaches and management for this opportunity. With a strong blend of both junior and senior players, we aim to create a formidable team and secure the title,” Jarmanpreet expressed.
Willott made a notable impact last season with his relentless effort, composure on the ball, and ability to control the play, which has now earned him a leadership position. He arrives at the League following a pivotal role in Hockey Club Melbourne’s Hockey One championship success.
“I look forward to coming to India and joining the squad. Jarmanpreet’s experience and commitment will guide our team to realize its full potential. Ky, despite his youth, gained invaluable experience last season and is well-prepared to assist Jarmanpreet in leading the team toward success,” remarked men's team head coach Tim Oudenaller.
Navneet is back as captain of the women's team after an impressive campaign, where she not only led the offensive charge but also scored critical goals, showcasing her impact in international fixtures. Supporting her will be Kaitlin, whose international experience, defensive skills, and calm decision-making will significantly enhance the team balance. Nobbs, a 2025 HIL champion, excelled in the Hockey One Final with the Perth Thundersticks over the weekend.
“I am grateful to SG Pipers for selecting me as the captain of the women’s team once again. I’m confident we will achieve strong results this season. Keeping the lessons from last season in mind, we have meticulously planned for the auction with our head coach Sofie and assistant coach Helen Mary. I believe our preparations will be evident in our performance. Thank you, SG Pipers, for trusting me as captain,” Navneet stated.
Sofie Gierts, the Head Coach of the Women’s Team, added, “Navneet has been retained as captain due to her embodiment of the values we wish to uphold. Her integrity, calm intensity, and outstanding hockey skills make her the perfect leader in a high-performance setting. We’ve appointed Kaitlin as vice-captain; her leadership experience, particularly from last year's HIL final victory, will be invaluable. She thrives under pressure, always supporting her teammates.”