December 27th 2024.
The wait is finally over for hockey fans as the Hockey India League is set to make its grand return in 2024-25. The much-awaited league will kick off with an exciting clash between Delhi SG Pipers and Gonasika this Saturday at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela. The stage is set for a thrilling showcase of world-class hockey and intense competition.
The men's HIL will commence on December 28 in Rourkela with all eight teams playing against each other once in Phase 1, which will end on January 18. The action will then move to Ranchi, where four women's teams will compete against each other from January 12 to January 26 at Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium. The top two teams from the women's league will battle it out in the Final on January 26.
In Phase 2 of the men's HIL, starting on January 19, the teams will be divided into two pools, Pool A and Pool B. They will face off against each other in their respective pool, with the top four teams advancing to the Semi Final on January 31. The pressure is on for all the teams, but the players are well-trained and ready to give their best on the field.
Delhi SG Pipers Captain Shamsher Singh expressed the team's excitement for their first match against Gonasika, stating that they have been preparing for the last two weeks and have also had team bonding sessions. He emphasized the importance of executing the team's strategy and taking each match as it comes. Gonasika Captain Manpreet Singh also shared his team's enthusiasm for the league's return and their determination to implement their training on the field.
The women's HIL will see four teams, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, Delhi SG Pipers, Soorma Hockey Club, and Odisha Warriors, competing against each other twice in the pool stage. The matches will begin on January 12 at Ranchi's Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium. To further add to the excitement, both men's and women's teams will also play one of their matches at an alternate venue, giving fans in both locations a chance to witness the action live.
The Hockey India League is making a comeback after seven years, and the players are eager to make their mark. With a mix of young talent, Indian seniors, and foreign players, the teams are well-equipped to put on a spectacular show for the fans. It's a chance for them to showcase their skills and minimize their opponents' goal-scoring opportunities. The stage is set, and the players are ready to give it their all in this highly-anticipated league.
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