Shamsher Singh and Jacob Whetton Appointed Co-Captains of Delhi SG Pipers for Hockey India League
Delhi SG Pipers have announced the appointment of India’s double Olympic medallist midfielder, Shamsher Singh, and experienced Australian player Jacob Whetton as co-captains of their men’s team for the inaugural season of the revamped Hockey India League (HIL).
The announcement comes ahead of the men’s HIL, set to begin on December 28 in Rourkela, while the women’s tournament, featuring four teams, will kick off in Ranchi on January 12, 2025.
Whetton, a three-time Olympian and a silver medallist at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, expressed excitement about leading the team alongside Shamsher. “The Hockey India League offers a fantastic opportunity to compete with the best in the world, and I’m excited to join this new franchise,” he said. Whetton is a decorated player with a 2014 World Cup win, two-time FIH Pro League titles, three Commonwealth Games golds, and double Champions Trophy victories.
Shamsher, who made his debut for India in 2019 and has since been a key player in various successful campaigns, also welcomed the responsibility. “I’m honored to be appointed co-captain with Jacob Whetton. I thank the team management, including chief coach Graham Reid and mentor PR Sreejesh, for their trust,” he said.
Graham Reid, the head coach of the men’s team, highlighted Shamsher’s leadership qualities and his experience, particularly his contributions to two Olympic bronze medal campaigns. “Shamsher brings a calm confidence to the team, and his leadership on and off the field will elevate the squad’s performance,” Reid commented.
Navneet Kaur, India’s vice-captain and striker, has been named the captain of the women’s team, with Belgian defender Emma Puvrez as her deputy. Navneet, who has represented India in 178 games, expressed her readiness to lead the team, saying, “I have good faith in my team, and I’m excited to play alongside such talented players.”
The decision to appoint co-captains for the men’s team aims to balance the representation of both international and domestic players. Delhi SG Pipers’ Director of Hockey and legendary Indian goalkeeper, PR Sreejesh, explained, “This dual captaincy ensures equality between foreign and domestic players, which is key to bonding the team.”
With seasoned leaders like Shamsher and Whetton at the helm, both teams are set for an exciting and competitive season in the upcoming Hockey India League.
