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Delhi SG Pipers have bolstered their squad for the upcoming Hockey India League (HIL) season by signing three-time Olympian Jacob 'Jake' Whetton of Australia. The 33-year-old midfielder joins the Pipers as a replacement for Dutchman Jorrit Croon, who has withdrawn due to an ankle injury.Whetton brings a wealth of experience to the Delhi franchise, having played 253 games for the Australian national team, the Kookaburras. He has scored 75 goals for his country and has been instrumental in their success on the international stage.In 2021, Whetton helped Australia win the silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics. He was also part of the team that won the World Cup in 2014 and finished third in 2018. Additionally, he has won gold medals at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow 2014, Gold Coast 2018, and Birmingham 2022.Whetton's impressive resume also includes two Champions Trophy titles (2012 and 2018), a bronze medal in 2014, four Oceania Cup titles, and an FIH Pro League gold in 2019.Delhi SG Pipers head coach Graham Reid expressed his excitement about Whetton's signing, saying, "Jacob's experience and skill set will be invaluable in filling the void left by Jorrit. His ability to control the midfield aligns perfectly with our game strategy."Whetton is familiar with Reid's coaching style, having worked with him in the past. He is expected to bring energy and expertise to the Pipers team.The HIL is making a comeback after a seven-year hiatus and will run from December 28 to February 1. The Pipers will be hoping to make a strong impact in the tournament with the addition of Whetton to their squad.

Delhi SG Pipers Acquire Olympic Medalist Lily Owsley for Women's Hockey India LeagueDelhi 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.