As the Hero Hockey India League, HIL 2026 season approaches, two franchises Ranchi Royals and Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons are shaping up with clearly defined philosophies.
Built on contrasting but complementary approaches, the Royals are banking on speed, fluid midfield play and attacking transitions, while the Dragons are reinforcing their reputation as one of the most disciplined defensive units in the league, anchored by elite goalkeeping and dependable penalty-corner execution.
For Ranchi Royals, this season marks a new beginning. Entering the league as a fresh franchise after replacing Team Gonasika, the Jharkhand-based side has focused on assembling a squad that values versatility and quick decision-making. At the heart of their setup is captain Manpreet Singh, who continues to redefine longevity and consistency in Indian hockey. Recently becoming only the second Indian player to cross the landmark of 400 international caps, Manpreet brings leadership, composure and tactical intelligence that few can match.
Under the guidance of head coach Harendra Singh, the Royals have paired Manpreet with Belgium’s Tom Boon, the 2025 FIH Player of the Year. The combination gives Ranchi a rare blend of Indian experience and European precision. Boon’s ability to influence play in the attacking third complements Manpreet’s control in midfield, allowing the Royals to dictate tempo and shift gears quickly during transitions. This partnership is expected to be central to how the team approaches both possession-based phases and counter-attacking situations.
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Defensively, Ranchi Royals have invested in a solid and balanced backline. Belgian defender Maxime Van Oots and Australia’s Tim Howard add international experience and physicality, while Nilam Sanjeep Xess provides familiarity with Indian conditions and tactical awareness. Together, they form a unit designed to stay compact while allowing the midfield to press higher up the pitch. The emphasis is on quick recovery runs and controlled build-up rather than risky long balls.
In the attacking circle, the Royals will lean on the finishing instincts of Mandeep Singh, whose experience in high-pressure matches remains invaluable. Alongside him, young forward Araijeet Singh Hundal brings pace and directness, offering a different dimension against packed defences. The presence of players like Mustapha Cassiem and Sam Lane further strengthens Ranchi’s attacking options, giving the coaching staff flexibility to rotate combinations depending on opposition and match situations.
Ranchi Royals will begin their Hero HIL campaign on January 4 against Vedanta Kalinga Lancers at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai. For a new franchise, a strong start will be crucial in building confidence and establishing their identity early in the tournament.
Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons, meanwhile, enter the 2026 season with continuity and confidence after reaching the semifinals in 2025. Their approach remains rooted in defensive discipline and efficiency in critical moments. Leading the side is Amit Rohidas, widely regarded as one of the most reliable defenders in world hockey. Rohidas’ ability to organise the backline, block shooting lanes and contribute during penalty corners makes him a cornerstone of the Dragons’ structure.
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One of the Dragons’ biggest strengths lies in their goalkeeping department. Ireland’s David Harte, a two-time FIH Goalkeeper of the Year, provides assurance between the posts with his reflexes and game-reading ability. He is ably supported by Princedeep Singh, who impressed during shootouts at the 2025 Junior World Cup. This depth allows the Dragons to maintain consistency across a long league season, where fine margins often decide outcomes.
Set-pieces remain a major weapon for the Chennai-based franchise. Australia’s Blake Govers continues to be one of the most feared penalty-corner specialists in world hockey. His accuracy and variation ensure that any defensive lapse by opponents can be swiftly punished. In open play, the Dragons rely on Mohammed Raheel Mouseen to link midfield and attack, while Germany’s Paul Kaufmann adds structure and positional discipline.
The presence of experienced internationals like Sander de Wijn, Tom Craig and Nathan Ephraums further strengthens the Dragons’ squad, giving them tactical stability and composure in tight matches. At the same time, Indian players such as Anand Lakra, Pruthvi GM and Selvam Karthi add energy and familiarity with domestic conditions, ensuring the team remains balanced rather than overly dependent on overseas stars.
Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons will open their season at home on January 3 against Hyderabad Toofans. With strong home support expected, the Dragons will be keen to set the tone early and reinforce their reputation as one of the toughest teams to break down in the league.
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As the Hero HIL 2026 season unfolds, the contrast between Ranchi Royals and Tamil Nadu Dragons adds a compelling tactical subplot. One side looks to impose itself through speed and attacking transitions, while the other aims to control games through defensive solidity and clinical execution. In a league where adaptability often determines success, both franchises appear well-equipped to challenge for the playoffs—and potentially more.
All matches of the Hero Hockey India League will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 3, and DD Sports, with live streaming available on Waves and the Hockey India League YouTube channel.
