Hockey India League Returns with Major Partnership & New Teams for Fans!

Hockey India has made a big announcement by teaming up with Doordarshan (DD) for the next three years to broadcast the Hockey India League (HIL) all over the country. They are also talking to other TV channels to get even more people to watch the league. Bhola Nath Singh, who is part of the HIL Governing Committee and Hockey India Secretary, said this partnership shows how they want to make hockey “India ka khel” (India’s game). He believes that everyone will be able to watch the matches thanks to DD’s large audience.

While Doordarshan was the first to support HIL, Singh mentioned that other channels are excited about the league too. “We want to reach as many fans as possible! We will have two main TV partners and several streaming options to connect with different types of audiences. More details on other partners will come out soon,” Singh added.

The league aims to provide high-quality production, expert voices, and solid analysis to make the viewing experience enjoyable for fans. Singh also talked about making the league financially strong, beyond just TV earnings. He shared that they have plans for sponsorship, innovative partnerships, and lots of ways to engage fans online and at events. He said, “Hockey’s popularity is growing, especially after India won medals at the Olympics, creating excitement from companies and fans. This energy, along with careful planning, will help the league succeed in the long run.”

Hockey India is expected to announce its title sponsor soon to make the league even more financially ready. In October, Hockey India brought back the HIL after a seven-year break. The 2024-25 season will see the return of the men’s league and the start of a women’s league. Starting in 2024-25, the HIL will include eight men’s teams and six women’s teams, playing at the same time. Well-known sports companies have already invested in both leagues.

Here are some of the men’s team owners:
– Chennai: Charles Group
– Lucknow: Yadu Sports
– Punjab: JSW Sports
– West Bengal: Shrachi Sports
– Delhi: SG Sports and Entertainment
– Odisha: Vedanta
– Hyderabad: Resolute Sports
– Ranchi: Navoyam Sports Ventures

And for the women’s teams:
– Haryana: JSW Sports
– West Bengal: Shrachi Sports
– Delhi: SG Sports and Entertainment
– Odisha: Navoyam Sports Ventures

There are plans to introduce two more women’s teams once some legal matters are sorted out. The cost for a men’s team has been set at Rs 7 crore per year, while a women’s team will cost Rs 3 crore per year. This shows the league’s dedication to promoting both men’s and women’s hockey in India.