After coming agonizingly close to glory in the inaugural edition, JSW Soorma Hockey Club enter the 2025–26 Women’s Hero Hockey India League with unfinished business on their minds.
Having topped the points table last season before falling short in the final, the Ranchi-based side is determined to convert consistency into silverware as the league returns for its second edition.
Continuity has been a key theme for JSW Soorma Hockey Club, beginning with leadership. Indian goalkeeper Savita and midfield lynchpin Salima Tete will once again share co-captaincy duties, providing stability and clarity in a campaign where margins are expected to be even finer than last year.
One of Soorma’s biggest strengths remains their formidable goalkeeping unit. Savita, a modern-day great of Indian hockey, recently reached the extraordinary milestone of 300 international caps, underlining her longevity and enduring influence. She was instrumental throughout the previous season and rightly walked away with the ‘Goalkeeper of the Tournament’ award. Her ability to organise the defence, deliver under pressure and inspire confidence makes her one of the most valuable assets in the league.
Backing her up is Nidhi, the first-choice goalkeeper for the Indian junior women’s team, who impressed at the recently concluded FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup in Chile. Having the top goalkeepers from both the senior and junior national setups gives JSW Soorma Hockey Club enviable depth between the posts, ensuring high standards regardless of rotation or workload.
Defensively, the side blends experience with emerging Indian talent. Australian defender Penny Squibb returns as a calming presence at the back, while Jyoti, one of the standout performers of last season, will again be central to their plans after being named ‘Player of the Tournament’ in the inaugural edition. The addition of Japan’s Shihori Oikawa further strengthens the backline. With 193 international caps and 56 goals, Oikawa brings not only defensive solidity but also attacking threat during set pieces. Jyoti Chhatri adds further depth, making the defensive unit both versatile and resilient.
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The midfield is anchored by Salima Tete, whose rise to the Indian captaincy reflects her importance as a tempo-setter and leader. Known for her tireless work rate and ability to transition play quickly, Salima will be crucial in linking defence and attack. She will be supported by a strong Indian core that includes Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Baljeet Kaur, Ajmina Kujur, Binima Dhan, Hina Bano and junior prospect Nisha.
International experience adds further balance and flair to the midfield. Sarah Robertson, with over 200 caps for Scotland and Great Britain combined, brings composure and tactical awareness, while Uruguay’s Vilar Del Valle Dupuy and Argentina’s Jimena Maria Cedres offer creativity and intensity, ensuring Soorma can adapt to different match situations.
In attack, JSW Soorma Hockey Club boast one of the most exciting line-ups in the league. Argentine star Maria Jose Granatto headlines the forward unit, bringing with her a staggering career tally of 145 international goals. Her movement, finishing and big-match temperament make her a constant threat. New Zealand’s Olivia Shannon adds pace and directness, while India’s young attacking duo of Sonam and Mumtaz Khan provide energy and hunger.
Sonam, in particular, will be eager to build on a breakout debut season where she finished as the highest Indian goalscorer and claimed the ‘Upcoming Player of the Tournament’ award. Her development could prove decisive in determining whether Soorma take the final step this time.
Overseeing the campaign is head coach Jude Menezes, whose tactical clarity and calm approach were central to the team’s consistency last season. Menezes will be focused on refining the finer details, especially in knockout situations, as he looks to guide the team to a title that narrowly eluded them.
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On paper, JSW Soorma Hockey Club appear well balanced across all departments, combining elite Indian players with seasoned international professionals. However, the departure of key internationals such as Charlotte Englebert, Sophie Louise Hamilton and Maria Verschoor presents a challenge. Englebert, the joint top scorer last season, leaves a notable goalscoring void that the current attacking unit must collectively fill.
If the forwards can find rhythm early and maintain their defensive solidity, JSW Soorma Hockey Club have all the ingredients to mount another serious title push. Their campaign begins against Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers on December 29, 2025, in Ranchi the first step in a journey aimed at turning last season’s heartbreak into championship success.
