The Hockey India League 2025-26 season will kick off with the women’s event on December 28 in Ranchi, while the men’s tournament will start on January 3, it was announced on Saturday.
The men’s league – featuring 33 matches – will be played across Chennai, Ranchi and Bhubaneswar, while the women’s edition – comprising 13 games – will once again be held entirely in Ranchi.
Soorma Hockey Club (SHC) has retained Harmanpreet Singh as captain of the men’s team and Savita Punia alongside Salima Tete as co-captains of the women’s side. With this, the franchise has underlined its belief that leadership stability can be a decisive competitive advantage in a short, high-pressure league.
For the men’s team, Harmanpreet Singh’s leadership brings authority at the back and a potent attacking weapon through his drag-flicking ability. Under his guidance last season, Soorma finished third, displaying growing maturity, resilience and tactical discipline.
Beyond numbers and results, the Indian captain’s calm under pressure and big-match temperament- honed through Olympic and Asian Games campaigns with India- have elevated the team’s standards.
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“It’s always a special feeling to lead this team,” Harmanpreet said while reflecting on the season ahead. “Last season showed what we’re capable of, and we’ve taken a lot of confidence from that. The group has grown stronger, and we genuinely believe we have the right mix to challenge the best.”
On the women’s side, Savita Punia, one of India’s most dependable goalkeepers, provides assurance from the back with her sharp reflexes, communication and ability to control high-pressure moments. Partnering her is Salima Tete, the dynamic midfielder whose energy, creativity and relentless work rate define the team’s tempo. Together, they led Soorma to a runners-up finish last season, narrowly missing out on the title in a fiercely contested league.
“Salima and I bring different strengths, but we’re united by the same purpose- to lead with clarity, trust and belief,” Savita said. “Our focus is on creating a positive culture where every player feels confident and empowered.”
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For Salima, continuing as co-captain is both a responsibility and a learning curve. “Sharing the captaincy with Savita is truly special,” she noted. “Her experience and the standards she sets push all of us to be better. We know what it takes to go all the way now, and we’re determined to take that final step this season.”
Soorma’s women’s campaign begins on December 29 against Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers in Ranchi, which will host the entire women’s tournament. The men’s side will face the same opponents- defending champions- on January 4 in Chennai, marking a challenging start to a league that will span Chennai, Ranchi and Bhubaneswar.
