Who Are the Top Emerging Talents in Women’s HIL?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Jan 31 (NationPress) The second season of the Women’s Hockey India League (HIL) provided a vital opportunity for Indian players to engage with elite international competitors. This tournament featured intense matches and highlighted numerous young Indian athletes who notably enhanced their skills, making a significant impact through their consistent and match-winning performances.
Following their remarkable displays in the Women’s HIL, these players have been invited to participate in the senior Indian women’s national team training camp, led by the new Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne. This camp is part of the team's preparations for upcoming international tournaments, including the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup Qualifier 2026, which will take place in Hyderabad, Telangana, in March.
Lathantluangi (Ranchi Royals)
The 20-year-old Lathantluangi was pivotal in the Ranchi Royals' defensive lineup, which concluded the Women’s HIL with the best record, allowing only seven goals throughout the tournament. Her excellent game awareness and calmness under pressure were vital as she adeptly assessed situations and played a key role in launching attacks from the backline, using her passing skills to initiate offensive plays from deep positions.
Bansari Solanki (SG Pipers)
Bansari Solanki, the goalkeeper for SG Pipers, was crucial to her team's success in the Women’s HIL, showcasing an exceptional performance in the Final against Shrachi Bengal Tigers. During the shootout after a 1–1 tie, the 24-year-old made three critical saves, including stopping a penalty stroke, ensuring SG Pipers triumphed 3–2 and captured the title. Her poise under pressure in the Final and her consistent performances alongside Argentine goalkeeper Cristina Cosentino earned her the ‘Goalkeeper of the Tournament’ award, underscoring her impact throughout the season.
Sonam (JSW Soorma Hockey Club)
Forward Sonam had another notable season with JSW Soorma Hockey Club, demonstrating confidence and attacking energy consistently. Last season, the 20-year-old was awarded the ‘Upcoming Player of the Tournament,’ and this season she continued to impress, earning her place in the national camp. Despite some challenges in attack, with only six goals netted—one being a field goal by Sonam—the team's resilience shone through. As a member of the Indian junior women’s squad, Sonam's performance in the Women’s HIL highlighted her ability to transition successfully to the senior level.
Shilpi Dabas (SG Pipers)
Defender Shilpi Dabas showcased a series of confident and mature performances for SG Pipers, which were instrumental in their victory in the Women’s HIL. Known for her consistent performances in national competitions, she effortlessly translated that form into the league, demonstrating her composure, positioning, and decision-making skills. Her standout contributions during SG Pipers' title run led to her much-anticipated selection for the senior national team, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Hina Bano (JSW Soorma Hockey Club)
At just 21, midfielder Hina Bano made a mark with her composed and disciplined play for JSW Soorma Hockey Club. Operating in a central role, she exhibited strong game awareness, a high work rate, and the capability to maintain possession under pressure. Her performances reflected her growing maturity and readiness to take on larger responsibilities at the senior level, following her previous involvement with India's junior women’s national team.
Currently, twenty-nine players are participating in the senior Indian women’s national coaching camp at SAI Bengaluru as the team gears up for the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup Qualifier 2026 in Hyderabad, Telangana.