Soorma Hockey Club sacked women’s team head coach Jude Menezes on Sunday, January 4, after a disastrous start to the Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26 season.
The team lost all four of its opening matches, prompting the management to hand over the reins to former India star Rani Rampal.
Rampal, who had been serving as team mentor, stepped in as interim head coach for the remainder of the tournament. The club announced the decision on social media, stating that Menezes and the management had “mutually decided to part ways with immediate effect.” The statement added that the move was taken in the best interests of the team and expressed gratitude to Menezes for his contribution.
Soorma Hockey Club, runners-up to the now-defunct Odisha Warriors in the inaugural HIL season, have yet to register a victory this campaign. Their struggles began with a 0-1 defeat to the Rarh Bengal Tigers, followed by another 0-1 loss to the Delhi SG Pipers. The Ranchi Royals then beat them 2-0, and in a return fixture, the Pipers handed them a 3-1 defeat.
Rampal’s appointment marks a crucial turning point for the franchise. With her leadership experience and deep knowledge of Indian hockey, the club hopes to revive its campaign. The squad features captain Salima Tete, veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia, 2022 Commonwealth Games silver medallist Penny Squibb, 2018 Asian Games gold medallist Shihori Oikawa, and Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist Sarah Robertson.
The shake-up underscores the urgency within Soorma Hockey Club to salvage its season and restore confidence among players and fans.
