Punjab Newsline, Sports :
Calm shootout execution, last-minute grit and season-long planning power SG Pipers to championship glory
SG Pipers clinched the Women’s Hockey India League (Women’s HIL) 2025–26 title with a spirited performance, defeating Bengal Tigers 3–2 in a shootout after the final ended 1–1 in regulation time in Ranchi. Following the title win, team captain and Player of the Tournament Navneet Kaur spoke about the side’s preparation, mental strength and the clear planning that guided their remarkable campaign.
Navneet said the team remained calm and fully committed to its plan during the shootout, despite having lost twice to Bengal Tigers in similar situations earlier in the season. According to the captain, the focus was on execution rather than past results. She added that goalkeeper Bansari Solanki had prepared thoroughly and studied the opposition players, which proved crucial in the decisive moments.
Speaking about the late equaliser in the final, Navneet highlighted the team’s never-say-die attitude. She said SG Pipers created several chances, especially in the first half, and were determined not to give up until the final whistle. The team had scored late goals earlier in the season as well, which reinforced their belief that sustained effort would eventually bring results. Trust among teammates and confidence in each other’s abilities played a key role in turning the match around.
Reflecting on the overall tournament, Navneet emphasised that consistency and clarity of thought were central to SG Pipers’ success. She said the team followed the same approach they had decided upon from the very first day. From the training camp to the auction, the management and players were clear about the kind of team they wanted to build and the style of hockey they aimed to play.
The title win marked a dramatic turnaround for SG Pipers, who had finished last in the previous edition of the league. Navneet admitted that the disappointment of last season was difficult to accept, but the team began planning for improvement immediately after it ended. The focus was on building a stronger squad, increasing depth and making the right changes, all of which were reflected in their performances this year.
The 29-year-old captain finished the season as SG Pipers’ highest scorer with four goals. For her outstanding contributions, Navneet Kaur was named Player of the Tournament and was awarded prize money of Rs 20 lakh, capping off a memorable championship-winning campaign.