Reviving Hockey's Champions Trophy: A Challenge on Crowded Calendars

FIH President Dato Tayyab Ikram plans to revive the Champions Trophy, but faces challenges with the crowded international hockey calendar. The Nations Cup aims to involve second-tier nations, while the Pro League Connect project seeks broader global engagement. The Hockey India League has returned after seven years.

FIH President Dato Tayyab Ikram on Wednesday discussed potential plans to revive the Champions Trophy, a prestigious hockey tournament previously discontinued in 2018, due to the hectic international schedule.

Initiatives like the Nations Cup aim to bridge the gap between elite and emerging hockey nations, while Ikram introduced 'Pro League Connect' to further engage with second-tier nations globally.

The return of the Hockey India League after seven years marks a unique addition to the calendar, despite challenges in scheduling due to global festivities, further highlighting the need for strategic calendar management.

(With inputs from agencies.)