The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the Women's Hockey India League (WHIL) as Shrachi Bengal Tigers and SG Pipers, who both missed the final in the inaugural edition last year, will battle for the championship on Saturday. The summit clash will be held at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi.
Road to the Final: Tigers Hold Group Stage Edge
In the league phase, Bengal Tigers emerged victorious over the Pipers on both occasions, though each win required a shootout after tense regulation periods. One match ended in a goalless draw, while the other was a 3-3 thriller where Tigers' star Agustina Gorzelany scored a brace.
All attention will once again be on the Argentine drag-flick specialist, Gorzelany, who has been in scintillating form. She has netted five goals from penalty corners (PCs) in the tournament so far. Her prowess sets up a fascinating intra-national duel, as Pipers' goalkeeper Cristina Cosentino is also from Argentina and is fully aware of the threat.
"I know her from top to bottom. I train with her every day, and we will have to try and stop her drag flicks," Cosentino stated. "For that we must be strategic and not give away many PCs. We will also have to analyze, defend well and try to be brave to put ourselves in front of the ball and not let her score."
Key Players to Watch in the Title Decider
Beyond Gorzelany, the Bengal Tigers will rely on the dynamic Lalremsiami. Her incisive runs into the striking circle have made her a constant menace. Team captain Vandana Katariya praised her development on the eve of the final, saying, "Siami has improved a lot in her game and has matured as a player. She has been very sincere and has tried to learn whenever possible. Despite all the challenges, she never gave up and has dominated the tournament this time."
For the SG Pipers, the onus will be on captain Navneet Kaur to lead from the front. Mirroring Lalremsiami's impact, Navneet has used her penetrating runs to great effect inside the 'D', scoring four goals in six matches. Her leadership has been a cornerstone of Pipers' campaign.
"We will showcase all our qualities in attack and defence, and most importantly, everyone should enjoy playing in the final because it's a special match where you're guaranteed a medal," said the Indian senior team player.
Team Spirit and Coaching Philosophy on Display
The Pipers' journey to the top of the table has been marked by fearless performances from their youngsters. However, coach Sofie Gierts highlighted the team's collective character as their biggest strength. "We have amazing personalities. Amazing people with lots of talent," Gierts said on Friday. "It's not easy for the players to be in a new group for only 20 days. But the personality and the character will make the difference in the final."
Gierts has empowered her squad by allowing senior players to lead pre-match talks and fielding an Indian-heavy lineup in group matches. This approach has fostered a strong, unified team environment.
Now, the ultimate question remains: Will the SG Pipers' cohesive unit and strategic planning halt the Tigers' charge, or will the firepower of Gorzelany and Lalremsiami secure the first WHIL title for the Bengal Tigers? Ranchi awaits a spectacular finale to the league's second season.
