The Hockey India League (HIL) is back: the players auction kicked off with intense bidding wars. Leading were India's Captain and vice-captain, Harmanpreet Singh and Hardik Singh, who commanded top bids and set the stage for an exciting season ahead.
Harmanpreet Singh, one of the world's most formidable drag-flickers, was snapped up by the JSW Sports-owned Soorma Hockey Club for a whopping Rs 78 lakh. His exceptional performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where he emerged as the top scorer with 10 goals, undoubtedly fueled the intense bidding for his services. Harmanpreet's impressive track record, including being named the Upcoming Player of the Tournament in the 2017 HIL and recently crossing the 200-goal milestone for the Indian team, makes him a prized asset for any franchise.
The Indian Vice-captain Hardik Singh, was acquired by UP Rudras for Rs 70 lakh. Recognized as one of the best midfielders globally, Hardik's all-round skills make him a vital player in any team.
Adding to the excitement was the impressive bid of Rs 72 lakh for Indian forward Abhishek, who was secured by Bengal Tigers. Abhishek's rise as a key player in the Indian national team, featuring prominently in the Asian Games and Olympics squads, has made him a sought-after talent in the league.
The auction, which spans three days, will see franchises build their squads with a mix of Indian and international players. Each team will comprise 24 players, including 16 Indian players (with four junior players) and 8 foreign players. The return of the HIL brings a renewed sense of excitement to Indian hockey. It provides a platform for young players to learn from the best in the world and showcase their talent.
