Ranchi Rays on Thursday announced Ashley Jackson as the captain for Hockey India league’s (HIl’s) third edition. Midfielder Jackson has been with the team since HIl 1, which started in 2013. Jackson is an English player, who also played in the England squad that won Bronze at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
Also, Ranchi Rays announced the coaching staff for the team with Harendra Singh as the Head Coach. He is presently the Coach Junior Men’s team. Clarence lobo comes on board as Assistant Coach and A B Subbiah will the Goalkeeper Coach.
Team Co-owner cum former Indian Cricket team captain MS Dhoni said, “Going by his experience and present performance, the team will do well and he will make the Ranchi fans proud by putting up a terrific show.” “I hope Harendra Singh, as a coach, will nurture the players and will bring the best of them,” added Dhoni.
Ashley felt honored with the selection. He said, “It’s a great feeling to be named captain of Ranchi Rays. The Ranchi fans are the best in the league and it will be a real honour to lead our talented team out in front of our home fans. I will be trying my best to lead from the front.”
The players started their home ground practice at Astroturf Stadium fromWednesday. “All the 32 players are expected to reach the capital by Thursdayevening and begin the serious practice sessions from Friday,” Hockey Jharkhand members said.
Ranchi Rays has replaced Ranchi Rhinos franchise in the league. Around five matches are scheduled here on January 26, 28 and February 6, 8 and 10 against Delhi Wave Riders, Dabang Mumbai, Kalinga lancers, Uttar Pradesh Wizards and Jaypee Punjab Warriors.