England’s Lily Owsley Joins Delhi SG Pipers for Women’s HIL
Delhi SG Pipers Acquire Olympic Medalist Lily Owsley for Women’s Hockey India League
Delhi SG Pipers have made a significant move by signing England’s star hockey midfielder Lily Owsley for the inaugural season of the Women’s Hockey India League (HIL). The 29-year-old two-time Olympic medalist will replace Dutch midfielder Xan de Waard, who withdrew from the tournament due to personal reasons.
Owsley is a highly decorated player with an impressive resume. She was part of the gold medal-winning team at the 2016 Rio Olympics and the bronze medal-winning team at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Additionally, she has won gold and silver medals at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham 2022 and Glasgow 2014, respectively. Her trophy cabinet also includes two European Championship medals: gold in London 2015 and bronze in Amstelveen 2017.
Delhi SG Pipers women’s team coach Dave Smolenaars expressed his delight at acquiring Owsley’s services. “Losing Xan de Waard is a setback, but being able to replace her with a 2-time Olympic medal winner like Lily Owsley is a big relief,” Smolenaars said. “She will bring in her experience, leadership, and high-speed play to help the team reach its potential.”
The Women’s HIL, scheduled to commence on December 28, will feature four teams: Delhi SG Pipers, Odisha Warriors, Rarh Bengal Tigers, and Soorma Hockey Club. The tournament final will be held in Ranchi on February 1, 2023.
Owsley’s addition to the Delhi SG Pipers squad is expected to bolster their chances of success in the inaugural edition of the Women’s HIL. Her experience, skill, and leadership will be invaluable assets to the team as they aim to make a mark in the tournament.