Sardar Singh Excited for Dramatic Return of Hockey India League

Former Indian hockey captain Sardar Singh, a decorated player and mentor, is thrilled with the revival of the Hockey India League (HIL). With a historic women's auction debuting this season, Singh believes this league will enhance Indian hockey by providing exposure and opportunities to emerging players.

Sardar Singh, the former Indian hockey captain and recipient of the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, is agog with anticipation for the return of the Hockey India League (HIL). The auction, set to feature over 1,000 players, promises to be an exhilarating event, with the men's auction scheduled for October 13-14 and the inaugural women's auction on October 15.

Reflecting on the league's inception in 2013, Singh, then crowned Player of the Tournament with Delhi Waveriders, extolled the HIL's role in fostering a dynamic learning environment. This unique platform allowed Indian players to engage with top international talents, offering invaluable exposure to various playing styles and cultures.

Throughout his career, Singh has been pivotal in nurturing young talent, including key figures in the current Indian team. He reminisced about the transformative impact of HIL on players like Harmanpreet Singh and Mandeep Singh, underscoring the league's significance in elevating Indian hockey standards. As Co-Captain of the Jaypee Punjab Warriors in 2017, Singh also played a crucial mentorship role, grooming Hardik Singh, who has since excelled internationally.

With historic achievements like Commonwealth Games silver medals and Asian Games golds in his arsenal, Singh envisions this season of HIL as a celebration of Indian hockey's legacy while paving the way for a new era. Singh, hopeful for emerging stars to rise from the auction, eagerly anticipates the impact of blending seasoned international players into the domestic arena.

The HIL 2024-25 auction will air live on DD Sports. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)