Harmanpreet Singh is set to lead JSW Soorma Hockey Club into the 2026 Hockey India League (HIL) season, which begins on January 3. Singh, also the captain of the Indian national team, views the HIL as a crucial opportunity to hone his skills and build confidence ahead of a busy international season.

The Indian team has a packed schedule, including the FIH Pro League, the World Cup, and the Asian Games in Japan. Singh believes that the HIL's high standard, comparable to international events, will help players quickly find their form. "The HIL comes at the perfect time for all of us in the Indian team," Singh stated. "The standard across franchises is very high, so every game will feel like an international match, which is exactly what we want before the Pro League, World Cup, and Asian Games".

Singh also emphasized the league's role in fostering growth among both senior and younger players. "As captain of the India team and Soorma, I see HIL as a chance to build leadership depth and give younger players big-match exposure alongside senior names," he added. He believes that setting a strong tone in work rate, penalty-corner execution, and defensive organization during the HIL will translate directly into improved performances for India later in the year. Singh's goal is clear: to have a strong HIL season and convert that confidence into medals for the country.

JSW Soorma Hockey Club, representing the hockey heartlands of Punjab and Haryana, is aiming to improve upon its third-place finish from the previous edition. Under the guidance of Head Coach Philippe Goldberg and mentor Sardar Singh, the team is focused on discipline and dominance in the circle. Soorma will begin their campaign on January 4 against defending champions Shrachi Bengal Tigers in Chennai.

The team boasts a strong lineup, including Belgian legend Vincent Vanasch, a three-time FIH Goalkeeper of the Year, guarding the goal. The defensive unit is further strengthened by Australian powerhouse Jeremy Hayward. Midfield control will be anchored by Belgium's Victor Wegnez, a former European Player of the Tournament, alongside India's Vivek Sagar Prasad. In attack, Soorma will rely on the experience of Akashdeep Singh and the speed of South African forward Dayaan Cassiem.

This year's HIL will be held in multiple cities, beginning in Chennai before moving to Ranchi and ending in Bhubaneswar, where the final will be held on January 26, 2026. Hockey India hopes to bring the tournament to hockey-loving cities, allowing more fans to experience high-level action with top players from around the world. The top four teams in the points standings will move on to the playoffs.

Besides Harmanpreet Singh, other prominent Indian players participating in the HIL include Hardik Singh for HIL GC, Manpreet Singh for Ranchi Royals, and Rupinder Pal Singh for SG Pipers. The league will also feature players from India's Junior World Cup bronze-medal winning squad.