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The much-awaited women’s edition of the Hockey India League (HIL) is set to make its debut in the 2024-25 season. This marks a significant milestone for Indian hockey, as the women's HIL will provide a dedicated platform for showcasing top national and international talent. With the inaugural season featuring four teams, it is expected to be action-packed and highly competitive.
While the first season will consist of four teams, the Women's Hockey India League is set to expand in its second season with the inclusion of two more teams. The additional teams, owned by Resolute Sports and BC Jindal Group, will further broaden the competition and bolster the league's growth.
This expansion signifies the league’s commitment to providing greater opportunities for women’s hockey and contributing to the sport’s continued development in India.
The four teams competing in the maiden season are Soorma Hockey Club, Shrachi Rahr Bengal Tigers, Delhi SG Pipers, and Odisha Warriors. With the auction scheduled for October 15, over 250 domestic women’s players and more than 70 international stars will be up for selection, making it one of the most anticipated events in the league’s lead-up.
India’s top hockey talents will be in the spotlight during the auction. Veteran goalkeeper Savita, team captain Salima Tete, drag-flicker Deepika, and the most-capped Indian women’s player Vandana Katariya are among the domestic stars who have registered. Forward Lalremsiami, another prominent name in Indian hockey, is also set to participate.
As far as the international stars are concerned, well-known names such as Delfina Merino (Argentina), Charlotte Stapenhorst (Germany), Maria Granatto (Argentina), Rachael Lynch (Australia), and Nike Lorenz (Germany) will also be part of the auction.
Women's Hockey India League a landmark moment for Women's Hockey in India
Speaking about the significance of the auction and the league’s launch, Hockey India president, Dr. Dilip Tirkey, expressed pride in hosting the first-ever women’s auction.
“We are proud to host the first-ever women’s auction, which is not just about building teams but also about building legacies. We are excited to see our domestic talent go head-to-head with some of the best international players and create new heroes for the next generation," he was quoted as saying by Sportstar.
Dr. Tirkey further emphasized that the Women’s Hockey India League 2024-25 would be a pivotal moment for Indian hockey.
“The Women’s HIL 2024-25 promises to be a watershed moment for Indian hockey, further propelling the sport’s growth on both national and international stages,” he said.
