The Sharchi Bengal Tigers finished third in the inaugural edition in the four-team tournament and the newly-appointed skipper Vandana Katariya ahead of the second season believes that the inclusion of Argentinian flair has strengthened the team and the team will enter with a mantra to clinch the title under head coach Deepak Thakur.
In an exclusive conversation with RevSportz, she speaks on the growth of women’s hockey, her team Sharchi Bengal Tiger, Women’s HIL, youth talent in Tigers camp and life after retirement.
This is the second season of the Women’s Hockey India League. How do you see the league evolving compared to last season?
Vandana Katariya: It feels really good. First of all, I want to thank Hockey India for bringing back the second season. The best players from across the world are here, and playing alongside young Indian players is very encouraging.
This league gives youngsters a platform to show themselves and build confidence to make a place in the national team. Many players have already progressed from the Hockey India League to the Indian team, and I hope this continues, especially for young women players.
You play in the forward line and the Bengal Tigers have several young forwards. How do you assess them?
Vandana: Today’s young players are very aware. They understand diet, fitness, recovery, and competition. Playing alongside foreign players helps them learn how to compete at the highest level. They come prepared, and the coaches here have also worked hard to groom them well.
With young players like Lalrinpuii, Sukhveer and Purnima, how do you see their development in the league as they’re coming after the Junior World Cup?
Vandana: All the young players coming from the Junior World Cup have their own strengths and playing styles. Some have speed, some have finishing ability, some are strong runners.
Together, these qualities help us play good team hockey.
There are big international names like Augustina Gorzelany and Valentina Raposo. Last season, finishing was a concern. How do you see the squad this time alongside them?
Vandana : Last season, we finished third and were confident as a team. Coach Deepak Thakur sir gave us a lot of belief. Earlier, we were heavy in the attack and light in midfield. This season, we are more balanced. Players are flexible and can play multiple positions. That balance helps in building a stronger team.
How do you see the Bengal Tigers’ midfield this season?
Vandana : Our midfielders are capable of contributing in both attack and defence. Even though options may look limited on paper, players are adaptable and ready to play wherever required.
Which department do you think is going to define the Bengal Tigers’ performance in this season?
Vabadana : We are a balanced team, a mix of young, junior, senior and experienced players. Everyone understands their role. We focus on defence, pressing, and attacking together as a unit.
You’ve played for over 15 years. How much has Indian hockey changed since your early days?
Vandana : Indian hockey has changed massively. Earlier, new players struggled to adapt. Now, even grassroots players know about nutrition, fitness, and high-performance culture. They work extremely hard to settle into the team environment and perform at the highest level.
Your retirement came as a surprise. Was it your own decision?
Vandana : Yes, it was my decision. There was mental pressure, and certain things affected me deeply. I always worked on what I was told, but situations kept repeating. It became mentally exhausting. I wanted to play, but I couldn’t do things the way I wanted, and that led to my decision.
If given a chance, would you like to return?
Vandana: As a player, I am always ready. Hockey has given me everything, my identity, love, respect. If I can help Indian hockey in any way, on or off the field, I am ready.
How important is this league for you personally?
Vandana: It’s very important. It’s competitive hockey, and I’m enjoying playing with this team and these players.
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