Hockey India League 2024-25: A New Era for Women’s Hockey
After a 7-year break, the Hockey India League (HIL) is back with an exciting new format for the 2024-25 season. For the first time, the league will feature an exclusive women’s competition alongside the men’s league. This marks a significant step forward for women’s hockey in India, providing a platform for female athletes to shine.
Historic Women’s Auction
The women’s auction, set for Tuesday, is a landmark event in hockey. Over 250 domestic players and more than 70 international stars will compete for spots in the inaugural Women’s HIL season. Notable Indian players like Savita, Salima Tete, Deepika, Vandana Katariya, and Lalremsiami will be part of the auction. International players such as Delfina Merino from Argentina and Rachael Lynch from Australia will also participate.
League Structure and Teams
The first season will feature four teams, with two more joining in the second season. Each team will have 24 players, including 16 Indian players and 8 from overseas. Teams will have a budget of Rs 2 crores to select players, categorized into three price slabs: Rs 10 lakhs, Rs 5 lakhs, and Rs 2 lakhs.
Statements from Hockey India
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey expressed pride in hosting the first women’s auction, emphasizing the growth of women’s hockey in India. Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh highlighted the league as a transformative moment for Indian women’s sports, aiming to inspire young girls nationwide.
Participating Teams
The teams include Soorma Hockey Club from Haryana and Punjab, Shrachi Rahr Bengal Tigers from West Bengal, Delhi SG Pipers from New Delhi, and Odisha Warriors from Rourkela. Hyderabad Toofans will join in the second season.
Doubts Revealed
Hockey India League -: The Hockey India League is a professional field hockey league in India. It features teams from different parts of the country competing against each other.
Women’s League Debut -: This means that for the first time, there will be a separate competition just for women in the Hockey India League. It is a new and exciting addition to the league.
Savita -: Savita is a famous Indian field hockey player. She is known for her skills as a goalkeeper and has represented India in many international tournaments.
Salima Tete -: Salima Tete is a talented Indian field hockey player. She plays as a midfielder and has been part of the Indian national team.
Auction -: An auction is an event where players are selected by teams. In this context, teams will bid to have certain players join their team for the league.
Domestic and International Players -: Domestic players are those who are from India, while international players come from other countries. The league will have a mix of both to make the competition exciting.
Promoting Women’s Hockey -: This means encouraging more people to watch and play women’s hockey. The league aims to make women’s hockey more popular and provide more opportunities for female players.
