After a long seven-year gap, Hockey India has brought back the much-celebrated Hockey India League (HIL). This announcement comes as a significant boost for the sport, which has been striving to regain its popularity in the country. Hockey, once the crown jewel of Indian sports, had lost its sheen over the years. The return of the league promises a new lifeline for the sport and its stakeholders.
The revamped HIL will have a distinctive format this time. It will include both men’s and women’s divisions, making it a unique platform for showcasing talent. The men’s matches will take place in Rourkela, Odisha. The women’s matches will be held in Ranchi, Jharkhand. This regional division helps in promoting the sport in tier-two cities, creating a broader fan base.
Teams and Owners: A Look at the Participants
Men’s Division: Eight Teams, Eight Cities
The league’s return season will see eight teams battling it out in the men’s division. Each team is backed by some of the most prominent business groups in the country.
1. Chennai (Charles Group)
Chennai’s team has been picked up by Charles Group, a diversified business entity known for its sports investments. This southern franchise aims to build a strong fan base in the Tamil Nadu region.
2. Lucknow (Yadu Sports)
Yadu Sports has taken the reins for the Lucknow team. With Uttar Pradesh’s rich legacy in sports, this franchise is poised to attract local talents and develop them into world-class players.
3. Punjab (JSW Sports)
JSW Sports, known for its support across various sports, has chosen Punjab for its franchise. This team will tap into the hockey craze in Punjab, a state known for producing legendary players.
4. West Bengal (Shrachi Sports)
Shrachi Sports has opted for a team in West Bengal. Hockey has a historical presence in the state, and the franchise aims to revive that spirit.
5. Delhi (SG Sports and Entertainment)
SG Sports and Entertainment is handling the Delhi franchise. The capital city has always been a hub for various sports, and the team’s participation will add to the city’s vibrant sporting culture.
6. Odisha (Vedanta Limited)
Vedanta Limited, with its long-standing support for hockey, has chosen Odisha, a state that has shown remarkable interest in the sport over the past few years.
7. Hyderabad (Resolute Sports)
Resolute Sports brings its expertise to Hyderabad. The city, better known for cricket, will now get to see some exciting hockey action.
8. Ranchi (Navoyam Sports Ventures Private Limited)
Ranchi, the birthplace of many hockey stars, has a rich history in the sport. Navoyam Sports Ventures aims to make this team a force to reckon with.
Women’s Division: Promising a New Dawn
The women’s division will start with six teams. Four have already been announced, while two more are expected soon.
1. Haryana (JSW Sports)
Haryana’s women’s team, backed by JSW Sports, will focus on nurturing local talent. With a strong grassroots program, the team aims to become a powerhouse.
2. West Bengal (Shrachi Sports)
Shrachi Sports, with its involvement in both men’s and women’s divisions, is committed to promoting hockey at every level.
3. Delhi (SG Sports and Entertainment)
SG Sports and Entertainment’s involvement in the women’s division signifies the growing popularity and investment in women’s hockey in India.
4. Odisha (Navoyam Sports Ventures Private Limited)
Odisha, known for its state-of-the-art hockey infrastructure, will have another shot at developing the women’s game with Navoyam Sports’ support.
Player Auction: Building Squads for Glory
The player auction for both men’s and women’s teams will be organized from October 13 to 15. It’s expected to be a lively event, with franchises looking to build a strong squad of 24 players each. Teams can have a maximum of eight overseas players, ensuring a blend of local and international talent.
This auction will be crucial. With many Indian players looking to cement their place, the event could become a platform for discovering future stars. Overseas players, who have experience in leagues like the Dutch Hoofdklasse and Germany’s Bundesliga, will add value to the league.
The Road Ahead: Expectations and Challenges
The return of HIL is a massive step, but it comes with its challenges. The league needs to sustain interest over the long term. Building a fan base in non-traditional hockey markets like Hyderabad and West Bengal will be key. Additionally, balancing the spotlight between men’s and women’s hockey is crucial. Women’s hockey, despite the recent success of the national team, still lacks the attention it deserves.
Yet, the opportunities are immense. HIL can become a breeding ground for young talent. It will provide a platform for local players to rub shoulders with international stars. This exposure will not only elevate the skill levels but also inspire the next generation of players.
The Venues: Taking Hockey to the Heartlands
Choosing Rourkela and Ranchi as the venues for the men’s and women’s divisions, respectively, is a strategic move. Both cities have shown immense passion for the sport.
Rourkela, Odisha
The city boasts the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, one of the world’s largest hockey arenas. Odisha’s consistent support for hockey is evident, and Rourkela is an apt choice to host the men’s matches.
Ranchi, Jharkhand
Ranchi has produced stars like Jaipal Singh and has a rich hockey culture. The city’s stadium, upgraded for the league, will see some intense women’s hockey action.
This approach takes the sport beyond the usual metro cities. It engages fans in regions where hockey still enjoys grassroots support.
A Look Back: HIL’s Impact on Indian Hockey
The Hockey India League began in 2013 and ran successfully for five seasons. It was instrumental in introducing new formats and showcasing top international talent. Players like Sardar Singh, Rupinder Pal Singh, and Akashdeep Singh emerged as stars through the league. The exposure to international playing styles helped many Indian players transition smoothly into the national team.
The league also increased hockey’s visibility in India. Stadiums were packed, and TV ratings were encouraging. It played a role in changing the perception of hockey as a “dying sport” in India. However, the league was discontinued in 2017 due to financial issues and logistical challenges.
HIL 2025: What Makes it Different?
The new edition of HIL comes with several upgrades:
- Inclusion of Women’s Division:
This is the biggest change. It provides equal opportunity and visibility to female players. The women’s league will run parallel to the men’s, ensuring that both divisions get the attention they deserve. - Stronger Franchise Backing:
The ownership of teams has changed hands. Established business groups like JSW Sports, Vedanta, and SG Sports are on board. This ensures a better financial structure and stability. - Enhanced Player Auction System:
The auction format is revamped. Teams have a better budget allocation and more strategic freedom in player selection. This is expected to improve squad competitiveness. - Better Infrastructure:
Stadiums like the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela are among the world’s best. Such facilities will elevate the playing standards and viewing experience.
Reviving Hockey’s Legacy in India
The return of HIL is more than just a league revival. It’s a chance to revive hockey’s legacy in India. The sport that brought India its first Olympic glory has struggled to keep up in recent times. With HIL’s return, there is a renewed hope.
Grassroots programs will be tied into the league. This means more young players will be scouted and trained through the league’s academy programs. School-level tournaments linked to HIL will ensure a steady supply of young talent.
Global Impact: What it Means for International Hockey
HIL’s return will not only impact Indian hockey but also the global hockey scenario. Top international players participating in the league will raise the standards. The experience they bring will benefit local players and coaches. This exchange of knowledge and skill will be invaluable.
Additionally, the league could attract more viewership from overseas. With digital streaming becoming popular, fans from across the world can tune in. This will position HIL as one of the premier hockey leagues globally.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Indian Hockey
Hockey India League’s return is a breath of fresh air for Indian sports. It comes at a time when there is a growing interest in Olympic sports. With strategic planning, strong financial backing, and equal opportunity for men’s and women’s hockey, HIL is poised to redefine the hockey landscape in India.
The league promises thrilling matches, rising stars, and a platform for hockey to reclaim its lost glory. Fans, players, and the entire hockey community have reasons to celebrate. HIL 2025 isn’t just about the return of a league. It’s about the return of hope for Indian hockey.
