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- Published: October 4, 2024 18:06
New Delhi: In a major boost to Indian hockey, the Hockey India League (HIL) is set to make a historic comeback after a 7-year hiatus, with the 2024-25 edition bringing an exciting new era to the sport. Officially announced today, the HIL 2024-25 will feature 8 men’s teams and 6 women’s teams, marking the first time a standalone women’s league will run concurrently with the men’s competition. This monumental expansion is a testament to Hockey India’s commitment to fostering both male and female talent in the sport, elevating the status of Indian hockey on a global scale.
The return of the Hockey India League is not only a significant moment in the history of the sport but also a major step forward in promoting women’s hockey. The introduction of an exclusive women’s league within the HIL framework provides a powerful platform for female athletes to demonstrate their prowess, paving the way for a more inclusive and competitive future for Indian hockey.
Adding to the excitement, the press event also revealed the men’s and women’s franchises that will compete in this edition of the league.
Men’s Franchises and their Owners
1. Chennai – Charles Group
2. Lucknow – Yadu Sports
3. Punjab – JSW Sports
4. West Bengal – Shrachi Sports
5. Delhi – SG Sports and Entertainment
6. Odisha – Vedanta Limited
7. Hyderabad – Resolute Sports
8. Ranchi – Navoyam Sports Ventures Private Limited
Women’s Franchises and their Owners
1. Haryana – JSW Sports
2. West Bengal – Shrachi Sports
3. Delhi – SG Sports and Entertainment
4. Odisha – Navoyam Sports Ventures Private Limited
Notably, the players’ auction for the HIL 2024-25 will be held from 13th to 15th October in New Delhi. Each franchise will build a 24-player squad, consisting of at least 16 Indian players (with a mandatory inclusion of 4 junior players) and 8 international stars. This balanced approach is designed to nurture local talent while adding international flair to the competition.
The HIL 2024-25 will commence on 28th December, with the opening ceremony scheduled to take place on the same date in Rourkela. The HIL 2024-25 will see its matches played across two venues — Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astroturf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi, Jharkhand and Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela, Odisha — with the women’s league final scheduled for 26th January 2025 in Ranchi and the men’s final to be held on 1st February 2025 in Rourkela. Each match will result in a winner, with shootouts being introduced for tied games to ensure every encounter concludes decisively.
Each franchise owner expressed their enthusiasm for being part of this landmark edition of the HIL.
Mr. Jose Charles Martin, Chairman and MD of Charles Group said, “It’s an absolute honour to be part of this historic moment, where we unite our passion for hockey with the spirit of Tamil Nadu. Our team is not just about winning matches but about inspiring the next generation of athletes, building a legacy of excellence, and making our state proud on the national stage. Together, we will elevate hockey to new heights and make Tamil Nadu a true powerhouse in the sport.”
Dr. Raghavpat Singhania and Mr. Madhavkrishna Singhania, owners of Yadu Sports and esteemed promoters of JK Cement Ltd said, “We are immensely proud to have acquired the Lucknow franchise in the Hockey India League. We firmly believe in the power of sports to drive nation-building and inspire the youth. Hockey, with its deep-rooted legacy in India, holds a special place in our hearts. Uttar Pradesh, the home of legends like Dhyan Chand and K.D. Singh, has always been an integral part of our family’s history, and we are excited to give back by bringing a hockey team to the passionate fans of Lucknow.