The return of the HIL
The player auction is scheduled for October 13-15 and the games start on December 28
It started in 2013 and we loved it. It ended after 2017 because of poor management and we hated that. But now…. The HIL is back and we’re excited!
Few leagues or events really made a impact on hockey like the original HIL. Sure we had and have the Dutch Hoofdklasse, still the strongest club league in the world of hockey who sets the tone. The EHL saw the light 18 years ago and is still going strong, thanks to the support of their sponsor ABN AMRO and the EuroHockey federation. Probably the league who brought us the most innovation, like the self pass rule among many other improvements. But the HIL brought the excitement you can only get from “Incredible India”.
The HIL launched in 2013 with a first ever player auction where the teams could bid on both local Indian talent but also on many international stars to join their team. The new auction is scheduled to be held in New Delhi between 13 and 15 of October. Most likely it will be livestreamed or broadcasted, but those details have not been shared yet.
A New Era for Indian Hockey
After a seven-year hiatus, the Hockey India League (HIL) is back. The league, which ran for five seasons from 2013 to 2017, played a pivotal role in raising the standard of Indian men's hockey, culminating in Olympic medals in Tokyo and Paris. The revival of the HIL signifies a new era for Indian hockey, promising to further elevate the sport domestically and internationally, particularly for women's hockey.
A League Reborn: What's New in HIL 2024-25
The upcoming edition of HIL brings exciting changes and new opportunities:
Women's League Debut: For the first time, the HIL will feature a women's league alongside the men's league. This landmark decision is expected to significantly boost the women's game in India, providing much-needed exposure and experience against top international players.
Expanded League Format: Eight men's teams and six women's teams will compete in HIL 2024-25. This expansion allows for greater participation and aims to nurture young talent.
Two Host Cities: Matches will be held in two cities known for their passionate hockey fans: Ranchi in Jharkhand, and Rourkela in Odisha. Ranchi will host all the women's matches, while Rourkela will host the men's matches.
Player Auction and Squad Composition: A player auction will take place on October 13-15 in New Delhi, with men's auctions likely on October 13-14 and women's on October 15. Each franchise will build a 24-player squad, comprising at least 16 Indian players (including four mandatory U21 players) and up to eight international stars.
Sustainability and Long-Term Vision: Hockey India emphasizes the importance of financial stability and long-term sustainability for the league. The decision to host matches in only two cities for the 2024-25 season reflects this approach.
The competition runs from the end of December to early February: The opening ceremony is on December 28 in Rourkela. The women’s final is set on January 26th and the men’s final for February 1st.
A Platform for Growth and International Success
The HIL provides a unique platform for Indian hockey players to:
Compete with Global Stars: Playing alongside and against international stars will expose Indian players to diverse playing styles and strategies, raising their level of play.
Gain Valuable Experience: The high-intensity competition in HIL offers invaluable experience, preparing players for international tournaments.
Attract Young Talent: The league's revival and the inclusion of a women's league can inspire a new generation of hockey players in India.
Focus on Women's Hockey: A Game-Changer
The introduction of a women's league is a watershed moment for Indian women's hockey. Harendra Singh, the Indian women's team coach, believes that the HIL will provide women players with the opportunity to:
Learn from the Best: Sharing the dressing room and competing against top international players will boost their confidence and tactical understanding.
Enhance Individual Preparation: The demanding nature of the league will push players to elevate their individual skills and fitness levels.
Bridge the Gap: HIL can help Indian women's hockey to catch up with the international level and improve their global ranking.
A Collective Effort for a Sustainable Future
The success of the revived HIL depends on the collective efforts of various stakeholders:
Hockey India: The governing body aims to ensure the league's financial stability and long-term sustainability.
Franchise Owners: A commitment to the sport's growth and collaboration with Hockey India is crucial for the league's success.
Players and Coaches: Their dedication and performance on the field will determine the league's competitiveness and appeal.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Indian Hockey
The return of the HIL is a significant step towards strengthening India's position as a hockey powerhouse. With its renewed format, focus on women's hockey, and a commitment to long-term sustainability, the HIL is poised to shape the future of Indian hockey, paving the way for greater success on the international stage.
