Founded in 2013 as a part of Hockey India’s attempt to develop an International Hockey Federation sanctioned league, after the un-sanctioned World Series Hockey, began in 2012. Hockey India League Started last week.
The first season took place in 2013. It proved to be a financial success for Hockey India, who were in financial disarray before the league began. In 2015, it was reported that the federation earned a profit from multiple revenues.
The 2024-25 Hero Hockey India League (HIL) kicked off with an electrifying weekend of hockey at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela, featuring three closely contested matches that set the tone for an exciting season ahead.
1st Match: Delhi SG Pipers Triumph in Season Opener
The opening match on December 28 saw Delhi SG Pipers emerge victorious against Gonasika in a nail-biting shootout finish.
The match, which ended 2-2 in regulation time, was ultimately decided by a 4-2 shootout in favor of Delhi SG Pipers.
Argentina’s Tomas Domene made history by scoring the first goal of the 2024-25 season in the fifth minute through a perfectly executed penalty corner.
Though Gonasika fought back with goals from Struan Walker and Victor Charlet, Domene’s second goal in the 39th minute forced the match into a shootout.
Delhi’s clinical performance in the shootout, with successful conversions from Jake Whetton, Domene, Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, and Raj Kumar Pal, sealed their victory.
2nd Match : Bengal Tigers Roar to Victory
The second day of action saw Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers secure a thrilling 3-2 victory over Hyderabad Toofans.
The Tigers displayed exceptional attacking prowess with goals from Jugraj Singh (9′), Sukhjeet Singh (20′), and Affan Yousuf (36′). Despite a late surge from Hyderabad Toofans through Timothy Daniel (41′) and Arthur de Sloover (59′), the Tigers maintained their composure to claim all three points.
Player of the Match Sukhjeet Singh credited his team’s strong start, stating,
“We began very well and it was important to stay in lead through the game. This was our first game, and we are delighted with how we performed.”
3rd Match : Soorma Club Prevails in Shootout Drama
The weekend’s final match saw Soorma Hockey Club overcome Tamil Nadu Dragons in another shootout thriller, ending 1-1 (4-1 SO).
After a goalless three quarters, Nathan Ephraums broke the deadlock for Tamil Nadu Dragons in the 49th minute, only for Gurjant Singh to level the score five minutes later.
The subsequent shootout showcased the brilliance of Soorma’s goalkeeper Vincent Vanasch, who was named Player of the Match for his crucial saves. Harmanpreet Singh,
Victor Wegnez, Vivek Sagar Prasad, and Nicolas Keenan successfully converted their attempts for Soorma, securing the bonus point.
Early League Dynamics
The opening weekend showcased the league’s fierce competitiveness, with two out of three matches needing shootouts.
The skill display, tactical battles, and dramatic finishes have already made this season’s HIL a must-watch for hockey enthusiasts, promising more excitement as the tournament progresses. Stay tuned for more action as the tournament heats up!
How to watches HIL Matches Live ?
The matches will be broadcast on multiple channels and in multiple languages. The lineup includes the Doordarshan network, including DD Sports, as well as Sony Sports Network – Sony Ten 1, 3, and 4.
For digital audiences, the matches will be available to stream on Sony LIV and Waves, the new OTT platform by Prasar Bharati
