Hockey India League 2024-25 Set to Make Historic Return with Women’s Edition

After a seven-year hiatus, the much-anticipated Hockey India League (HIL) is making a grand comeback in the 2024-25 season, introducing an exclusive women’s league for the first time. The historic women’s auction, taking place today, marks a significant milestone in promoting women’s hockey and advancing the sport in India.
The new format will feature both men’s and women’s leagues running concurrently, reflecting the growth of women’s hockey and ensuring equal opportunities for female athletes. The auction will see over 250 domestic players and more than 70 international stars vying for spots in the inaugural season of the Women’s HIL.
Highlighting the auction are top Indian women’s hockey players, including seasoned goalkeeper Savita, captain Salima Tete, rising star Deepika, and the most-capped Indian woman player, Vandana Katariya. They will be joined by international talents such as Delfina Merino (Argentina), Charlotte Stapenhorst (Germany), and Rachael Lynch (Australia), promising a thrilling spectacle for hockey fans.
The inaugural season will feature four teams, with plans to expand to six in the second season. The teams competing in this landmark event include:
- Soorma Hockey Club, Haryana and Punjab – JSW
- Shrachi Rahr Bengal Tigers, West Bengal – Shrachi Sports
- Delhi SG Pipers, New Delhi – SG Sports and Entertainment
- Odisha Warriors, Rourkela – Navoyam Sports Ventures Private Limited
Each team will consist of 24 players, including 16 Indian players (with a mandatory inclusion of 4 junior players) and 8 overseas players. Franchises will operate with a budget of INR 2 crores, and players will be categorized into three base price slabs: INR 10 lakhs, INR 5 lakhs, and INR 2 lakhs.
Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey expressed pride in hosting the first-ever women’s auction, emphasizing its importance for building legacies and creating new heroes for future generations. “The Women’s HIL 2024-25 promises to be a watershed moment for Indian hockey, propelling the sport’s growth on both national and international stages,” he stated.
Hockey India Secretary General Shri Bhola Nath Singh added that this initiative marks a transformative moment for Indian hockey, providing female athletes with a much-needed platform to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level. He highlighted the commitment to advancing women’s hockey in the country and inspiring young girls across India.
The Women’s HIL is set to elevate the sport and foster a new era of competition in Indian hockey.