New Delhi, 19 December (H.S.): The second season of the Hero Women’s Hockey India League (HIL) is all set to begin on Saturday, December 28, promising high-octane matches and a strong display of homegrown talent. Representing the Ranchi Royals, Jharkhand’s rising stars Beauty Dungdung and Sangita Kumari are eager to play in front of their home crowd and deliver an inspiring performance.

Both players made their international debut for India in 2021, marking the start of promising careers. Since then, Sangita has scored 30 international goals, while Beauty has contributed six goals, helping shape India’s growing dominance in women’s hockey. Now, they aim to replicate that success with the Ranchi Royals in the upcoming HIL season.

Expressing her excitement, Sangita Kumari, who was part of India’s bronze medal-winning team at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, said through Hockey India, “It’s a matter of great pride to play on home turf. Playing in Ranchi has always been special, but representing Ranchi Royals makes it even more meaningful. The fans here are passionate about hockey, and their energy boosts every player’s confidence. It will be extra special as my family will be in the stands to support me.”

When advising young players, Sangita emphasized, “Enjoying your game is the most important thing. Have faith in your skills and techniques, and always give your best. Playing with foreign players gives us valuable learning experiences — we exchange ideas, understand finer details of the game, and pick up new skills.”

The Ranchi Royals squad also features veteran Argentine stars Agustina Albertarrio and Agostina Alonso, who won silver at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and bronze at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Speaking about them, Sangita added, “Both Agustina and Agostina bring a wealth of experience. Sharing the dressing room and field with them will be an exciting learning opportunity.”

Sharing her enthusiasm, Beauty Dungdung said, “Matches in Ranchi always draw packed crowds. The city has some of the most passionate hockey fans. This is our home turf, and we’ll give everything to secure victories for the Royals.”

The midfielder highlighted the importance of the league, noting, “The Hero HIL provides a golden opportunity for young players to play alongside some of the world’s best international talent. Many junior players often wonder when they’ll get a chance at the senior level — this league bridges that gap. As the standards at the top rise, it naturally strengthens the grassroots structure.”

Beauty further noted, “Women’s hockey in India is on an upward path, and we want to push it to new heights. The Hero HIL is an outstanding platform for both junior and state-level players. Watching high-quality women’s and men’s matches gives them a chance to learn from the very best.”

Reflecting on team camaraderie, she added, “Initially, we hesitated a bit while talking to foreign players, but now we openly interact with them. Whenever we fail to execute a skill or miss a chance, we seek their advice — and they always help with enthusiasm. Their experience and maturity offer us endless learning opportunities.”

The Ranchi Royals squad also features young talents Sakshi Rana and Kanika Siwach, who represented India at the Junior Women’s World Cup held in Chile earlier this year.The Hero Women’s Hockey India League kicks off on December 28, with the Ranchi Royals facing SG Pipers in their opening match.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar