~Delhi SG Pipers to face Gonasika in HIL opener on 28 December~
New Delhi, 5 November 2024: Hockey India League today marked an exciting milestone for the 2024-2025 edition of HIL with the launch of a dedicated league website and the announcement of the schedule for the much-anticipated season. Set to kick off on 28 December with a thrilling match between Delhi SG Pipers and Gonasika at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela, the revamped HIL promises an action-packed return.
The newly launched HIL website – hockeyindialeague.com – provides fans worldwide with easy access to the latest league news, match schedules, full squad listings, and exclusive video content. Designed to deliver an engaging and immersive experience, the website will be the ultimate source for all things HIL, keeping fans, players, and hockey enthusiasts closer to the game than ever before.
Following an extensive player auction, eight men’s and four women’s teams are gearing up to compete in what promises to be the biggest and best HIL season yet. The men’s league will begin on 28 December in Rourkela, with matches continuing through two stages until the final showdown on 1 February 2025. Meanwhile, the women’s teams will start their league journey on 12 January 2025 in Ranchi, with their grand finale slated for 26 January.
HIL Men’s League Format
The men’s HIL will kick off in Rourkela, with Phase 1 spanning from 28 December to 18 January, where all eight teams will play against each other once. Phase 2, beginning on 19 January, will see the teams divided into two pools: Pool A (Delhi SG Pipers, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, Soorma Hockey Club, Vedanta Kalinga Lancers) and Pool B (Gonasika, Hyderabad Toofans, Tamil Nadu Dragons, UP Rudras). Each team will face others in their respective pool, with the top four teams advancing to the semifinals on 31 January.
HIL Women’s League Format
The Women’s HIL will commence on 12 January at Ranchi’s Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium, with each team playing against the others twice. After a competitive pool stage, the top two teams will meet in the final on 26 January. Both men’s and women’s teams will also play one of their matches at an alternate venue to bring HIL excitement to fans in multiple locations.
Commenting on the HIL’s return, Hockey India League Governing Committee Chairperson Dr Dilip Tirkey said, “We are thrilled to reintroduce the HIL after a seven-year hiatus. This season promises high-caliber matches and intense competition, showcasing the best of Indian and international hockey talent. The launch of our new website brings fans closer to the action, but the true thrill lies in the journey ahead.”
Hockey India League Governing Committee Member Shri Bhola Nath Singh added, “The HIL’s return is a historic occasion for Indian hockey. We are eager to witness the exhilarating matches and the exceptional talent on display. With the new website, following the league will be easier and more enjoyable, helping us deliver an unforgettable hockey season.”
The HIL season promises to bring a festival of hockey, offering thrilling matches and a stellar platform to showcase the best hockey talent in India and beyond. Fans can stay tuned to hockeyindialeague.com for all updates and join the countdown to an unforgettable season of hockey.
Please find attached photos and schedule.
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