After 12 thrilling matches and 37 goals in the Women's Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26, SG Pipers and Shrachi Bengal Tigers gear up for a blockbuster final at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro Turf Hockey Stadium on Saturday.
Both finalists boast similar attacking flair but contrasting strengths, setting the stage for a tactical chess match. SG Pipers dominated the league stage, topping the table with 11 points from three wins, ahead of Shrachi Bengal Tigers' 10 points (two regular-time wins, two shootout victories). Ranchi Royals lagged in third with 9 points.
Head-to-head, Tigers hold the edge: they stunned Pipers twice via penalty shootouts-4-3 after a 3-3 draw in the opener, and 7-6 following a goalless stalemate. Yet Pipers' stats
scream dominance: second-highest scorers with 11 goals (led by captain Navneet Kaur's 4, Lola Riera's 3, and Sunelita Toppo's 2), plus the league's second-best defense (9 conceded).
Pipers' skipper Navneet Kaur reflected on their turnaround: "From bottom last season to top this year-it's been special. We're fearless and hungry for the trophy. " Tigers, captained by Vandana Katariya, lean on penalty corner ace Agustina Gorzelany (5 goals) and Lalremsiami (2 goals), despite leaking 11 at the back. Their coach, fresh off a men's HIL title, instilled a champion's mindset: "We've bonded tightly and improved game by game-now it's about consistency. "
Key Matchups to Watch
Navneet Kaur vs Tigers' defense: Her drag-flick prowess could unlock the game.
Gorzelany's corners vs Pipers' backline: Tigers' 7 goals pale against Pipers' firepower.
Shootout duel: Tigers' nerve in penalties vs Pipers' regular-time edge.
