Two-time Olympic medalist Lily Owsley joins Delhi SG Pipers for Hockey India League 2024-25

Hockey India League franchise Delhi SG Pipers announced on Saturday, November 2, that they had acquired the services of two-time Olympic medalist Lily Owsley to replace Xan de Waard, who is recovering from an injury.

"Welcoming Lily Owsley to the Delhi SG Pipers squad! Joining us as a dynamic new addition, replacing Xan De Waard, who steps away for recovery. Here’s to new energy, new goals," a tweet from the Pipers read.

Lily Owsley made her national team debut with England in 2013 and has scored 19 goals in 88 appearances since then. The 29-year-old attacker also plays for the Great Britain national team, debuting in 2014.

She has found the back of the net 17 times in 76 matches. Overall, she has scored 36 goals in national colors in 164 games over the years.

Owsley has represented Great Britain at the Olympic Games in 2016 Rio, 2020 Tokyo, and 2024 Paris. She won the gold medal in Rio and bagged the bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Moreover, she has won two European Championship medals and two medals at the Commonwealth Games representing England.

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Delhi SG Pipers women's team coach Dave Smolenaars opens up on new signing for HIL 2024-25

Delhi SG Pipers women's team coach Dave Smolenaars was upset with Xan de Waard missing out on the Hockey India League 2024-25.

However, he was happy to have Lily replace the Dutch midfielder. Smolenaars was quoted as saying in a press release:

"Losing Xan de Waard, undoubtedly one of the best players in the world, is a setback for the team. But being able to replace her with a 2-time Olympic medal winner Lily Owsley, is a big relief. She will bring in her experience, leadership, and high-speed play to help the team reach its potential."