high speed train tickets online purchase from Guangzhou to Zhaoqing

I am buying ticket for myself and my friend in Guangzhou before meeting my friend comes from other city in China. Is it true that I need her name (as in passport) to buy online either directly or through travel agent? I can understand my name is needed because I make the booking, but why need my friend's name (must be exactly the same as passport or risk being refused boarding).

What if buy directly at railway station because I arrive early than her. Still need her name?
Thank you.