Chief Minister Hemant Soren was on Friday formally invited to attend the inauguration of the Hockey India League (HIL) 2025–26, scheduled to begin on December 28 at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astroturf Hockey Stadium, Morabadi.
Hockey India General Secretary Bhola Nath Singh called on the Chief Minister at his official residence on Kanke Road and extended the invitation for Soren to be the chief guest at the opening ceremony. During the courtesy meeting, Singh briefed the Chief Minister on preparations for the prestigious domestic league, which returns to Ranchi after a gap and is expected to draw strong national and international attention.
The Chief Minister welcomed the initiative and underlined the importance of high-profile sporting events in strengthening Jharkhand’s sporting ecosystem and inspiring young athletes in the state.
The league’s return has added to the excitement among local hockey followers, particularly with Jharkhand’s own players set to feature prominently. Ranchi Royals’ homegrown stars Beauty Dung Dung and Sangita Kumari have expressed eagerness to perform in front of the home crowd as the Hero Women’s Hockey India League gets underway.
Both players, who made their India debut in 2021, have since become regulars at the international level. Sangita Kumari has scored 30 goals for India, while Beauty Dung Dung has contributed six. Representing their home franchise at their home ground, they believe, will be a special moment.
“It’s always special to play in Ranchi, and now to do it for the Ranchi Royals makes it even more meaningful,” Sangita said, recalling that her family would also be present in the stands. Beauty echoed the sentiment, noting the city’s deep connection with hockey and the packed stadiums whenever matches are held in Ranchi.
The players also highlighted the broader impact of the HIL in providing young Indian players an opportunity to compete alongside experienced international stars. Both spoke about the learning value of interacting with foreign players, including Argentine Olympians Agustina Albertario and Agostina Alonso, who are part of the Ranchi Royals squad.
The Hero Women’s Hockey India League will open on December 28 with hosts Ranchi Royals taking on SG Pipers. Matches 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.