Savita Punia Backs Stronger Soorma Hockey Club To Go A Step Further In Women's HIL

Soorma Hockey Club enjoyed a brilliant start to their campaign in the inaugural Women’s Hockey India League last year. They opened with a dominant 4-1 win over Rarh Bengal Tigers, followed it up with a 2-1

victory against eventual champions Odisha Warriors, before suffering a 0-2 setback against Delhi SG Pipers.

The return fixtures saw mixed results. Soorma bounced back emphatically with a 5-1 thrashing of Delhi, but later went down to Odisha in a penalty shootout. They then defeated Bengal 4-2 to seal a place in the final, where they once again fell short against Odisha Warriors.

Despite the heartbreak, Soorma forward Jyoti Rumavat capped off a stellar campaign by winning the Player of the Tournament award.

Ahead of the second season, News18 Sports spoke to Soorma co-captain Savita Punia about the team’s plans to go one step further, her role in mentoring young goalkeeper Nidhi Phalswal, and more.

Excerpts:

You finished as runners-up last season. What’s the plan to cross the final hurdle this time?

We are well prepared. From the first day of camp, we had open and healthy discussions. Last season, we played very good hockey and, based on our performances, we felt we deserved the title. That said, results are part of the game. This time, we have a very strong team, and we are confident of winning the trophy.

You share goalkeeping duties with Nidhi Phalswal. How do you see her progress?

Nidhi is very eager to learn. She asks a lot of questions and is always keen to improve. Junior and senior camps often run together, and whenever I have time, she comes to me for advice. I tell her she has a bright future, but discipline and hard work are essential to perform consistently at the highest level.

What do you try to pass on to her as a senior goalkeeper?

Consistency and focus are key. Everyone wants to perform well, but daily discipline is what makes the difference. I try to help her as much as I can, and it is special that we are both Indian goalkeepers training and playing together. Nidhi’s energy actually helps me relax rather than feel pressure.

How has your relationship been with head coach Jude Menezes?

It has been very good. I have known Jude since his time as New Zealand’s goalkeeper coach and later as Japan’s head coach. I really like the positive environment he creates. Jude gives players the freedom to express themselves, which is very important.

What’s been the main focus during short camps before the league?

With just 15-20 days together, it is not about teaching too much hockey. Everyone already has the skills. The focus is on staying connected, building unity and showing fighting spirit on the field.

How do you and Salima Tete share co-captaincy responsibilities?

Leadership is not just about a title. Even when you are not the captain, responsibility remains. Salima is doing a great job and I support her during matches, meetings and in connecting with players. We also have other leaders like Jyoti and Vaishnavi, so leadership is shared across the group.

How important is the presence of overseas players in the league?

It is very encouraging. Players from countries like Argentina, the Netherlands and Australia recognise the quality of Indian hockey. For our young players, sharing the dressing room with world-class athletes is a huge learning experience and helps their development.

Would you like to see the Women’s HIL expand beyond four teams?

Absolutely. It is great that the league started in 2024, especially after years of waiting. Expanding teams will only increase competition and give more domestic players an opportunity. The most important thing is that the league continues and grows.