Hockey India League Returns After Seven Years
The Hockey India League (HIL) is making a comeback after a seven-year break, as announced in New Delhi. The league will feature 8 men’s teams and 6 women’s teams, marking the first standalone women’s league in India. Matches will begin on December 28, 2024, at two venues: Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astroturf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi, Jharkhand, and Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela, Odisha. The women’s league will end on January 26, 2025, in Ranchi, while the men’s final will be on February 1, 2025, in Rourkela.
Harmanpreet Singh’s Enthusiasm
Harmanpreet Singh, captain of the Indian men’s hockey team, expressed his excitement about the league’s return. He believes it offers a great opportunity for young players to learn from international stars. Harmanpreet, who scored six goals in the 2017 edition and was named Upcoming Player of the Tournament, credits the league for his development and India’s success at the Tokyo Olympics.
Player Auction Details
The player auction for HIL 2024-25 will take place from October 13 to 15 in New Delhi. Each team will have a 24-player squad, including at least 16 Indian players and 8 international stars. Players will be categorized into three price slabs: 2, 5, and 10 lakhs.
Harmanpreet is eager to see which team he will join and is excited about the league’s potential impact on both men’s and women’s hockey in India.
Doubts Revealed
Harmanpreet Singh -: Harmanpreet Singh is a famous Indian field hockey player. He is the captain of the Indian men’s hockey team and is known for his skills as a defender and drag-flicker.
Hockey India League -: The Hockey India League is a professional field hockey league in India. It features teams from different parts of the country and helps promote the sport by providing a platform for players to showcase their talent.
Player auction -: A player auction is an event where teams bid to buy players for their team. In the context of sports leagues, it helps teams form their squads by selecting players they want to include.
Olympic success -: Olympic success refers to winning medals or performing well in the Olympic Games. For India, doing well in hockey at the Olympics is a matter of national pride, as hockey has a rich history in Indian sports.
