SG Pipers appoint Jarmanpreet Singh, Navneet Kaur as Captains

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SG Pipers have announced their leadership group for the second season of the Hockey India League, entrusting two of India's most esteemed Olympians with key roles.

Defender Jarmanpreet Singh will captain the men's team, supported by Australian midfielder Ky Willott as vice-captain. On the women's side, star forward Navneet Kaur continues as captain, with Australia's Kaitlin Nobbs stepping in as vice-captain as she joins the Pipers for the first time.

This leadership group mirrors SG Pipers' renewed ambitions. Last season, Jarmanpreet Singh stood out as one of the team's top performers, and his significant role in India's Asia Cup 2025 victory highlights his leadership preparedness. Ky Willott earned his vice-captaincy after showcasing remarkable work rate, composure on the ball, and playmaking abilities last season. He joins the league fresh from helping Hockey Club Melbourne secure the Hockey One title on Sunday.

The women's squad will see Navneet Kaur continue to lead, having had a strong season marked by crucial goals and influential performances for India internationally. Kaitlin Nobbs, who played a key role in Perth Thundersticks' Hockey One championship win on Sunday, brings defensive strength, calm decision-making, and valuable international experience to her vice-captaincy role.

Head Coach Tim Oudenaller shared his excitement about the appointments: "We are delighted to announce that Jarmanpreet will be our captain this season. With his experience and dedication, he will be able to guide the team to its highest potential. Ky will be the vice-captain this season. Despite his age, he brings considerable experience from last season, making him well-equipped to support Jarmanpreet and guide the team to reach their full potential. In a few weeks, the team will see each other in India. I'm looking forward to that moment, and I know that the team will prepare themselves as well as possible for the competition. They know what I expect and what to do to achieve the best result at the end of the competition."

Olympic Bronze Medallist Jarmanpreet Singh expressed his gratitude: "I want to thank our coaches and the management for giving me this opportunity. With a strong mix of junior and senior players, we are confident in building a powerful team and are aiming to bring home the title."

Sofie Gierts, Head Coach of the Women's Team, noted, "We have retained Navneet as captain because she consistently reflects the values, we want this team to stand for. Her integrity, calm intensity and exceptional hockey talent make her the ideal leader in a high-performance environment. We have also appointed Kaitlin as vice-captain; her guidance and experience, especially winning last year's HIL final, will be invaluable. She brings a leadership style that thrives under pressure while always supporting her teammates. Overall, we have a well-balanced squad with strong global diversity, which will be one of our biggest strengths. The team is eager to begin preparations, and we are united and ready for the 28th."

Navneet Kaur shared her appreciation: "Thank you, SG Pipers, once again for choosing me as the captain of the SG Pipers women's team. I am confident that we will achieve strong results this season. Keeping in mind the shortcomings of last season, we planned for the auction alongside our head coach, Sofie and our Assistant Coach Helen Mary. I am sure that our preparation will reflect in our performances. Once again, thank you, SG Pipers, for placing your trust in me as captain."