After seven long years, the much-loved Hockey India League (HIL) is set to make its grand comeback this December. With player auctions scheduled from October 13 to 15, the excitement is building as fans, players, and teams prepare for a fresh wave of competition. HIL is returning stronger than ever, backed by bold financial investments and a vision to elevate Indian hockey.
Hockey India has laid out an ambitious 10-year plan with a total projected expenditure of Rs 3,640 crore to support the league. Of this, Hockey India will contribute Rs 112 crore annually, amounting to Rs 1,120 crore over the decade, while franchise owners will invest Rs 2,520 crore. This joint commitment is expected to provide the resources necessary to sustain the league and help It thrive in the long run.
In partnership with the International Hockey Federation (FIH), Hockey India has signed a 10-year agreement to run the league, with reviews every three years tomonitor progress and implement adjustments if necessary. This partnership strikes a balance between long-term planning and flexibility, allowing the league to evolve and grow.
One of the most exciting developments this season is the simultaneous launch of both the men’s and women’s leagues, a significant move toward promoting gender equality in Indian sports. With 8 men’s teams and 6 women’s teams, the league is set to begin on December 28, 2024. The women’s final will be held on January 26, 2025, followed by the men’s final on February 5, 2025. Fans can look forward to thrilling matches at two venues, Rourkela and Ranchi, which will host the action.
This season will also feature an IPL-style auction format, where players will be categorised into three financial brackets – Rs 2 lakh, Rs 5 lakh, and Rs 10 lakh. This approach will enable teams to build well-balanced rosters with giving players of different skill levels an opportunity to shine. While the prize money is yet to be determined, the excitement around the auctions alone promises plenty of drama.
However, as the league prepares to return in full force, some important questions remain. A key concern is the lack of clarity on the connection between HIL and grassroots hockey in India. There’s no concrete plan on how the league will engage with domestic academies or nurture young talent at the grassroots level. Developing future stars through these channels will be crucial for sustaining the growth of hockey in India in the long run.
As the December kickoff approaches, the revival of the Hockey India League brings a wave of optimism. While success on the professional front seems assured, the long term impact of the league will depend on ability to bridge the gap between elite competition and grassroots development. Nevertheless, HIL’s return marks a thrilling new beginning for Indian hockey, one that fans across the nation have been eagerly waiting for.