NEW DELHI: The 2024/25 Hockey India League (HIL) Player Auction proved to be an action-packed event, with franchises making strategic bids to assemble teams that balance Indian and international talent. With all eight franchises actively participating, the auction highlighted both the strength of Indian hockey players and the global appeal of the league, attracting high-profile international stars to Indian shores.
Indian players were the stars of the auction, reflecting the growing depth and quality of the nationโs talent pool. Leading the list was Indian captain and drag-flick specialist Harmanpreet Singh, who fetched โน78 lakh from Soorma Hockey Club, making him the highest-paid player of the auction. His ability in penalty corners and leadership credentials make him a critical acquisition for the franchise.
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Forward Abhishek also garnered significant attention, securing a โน72 lakh deal with Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, while Hardik Singh, a crucial figure in Indiaโs midfield, was picked up by UP Rudras for โน70 lakh. These marquee signings reflect the franchisesโ confidence in building around proven domestic talent, particularly players integral to Indiaโs recent international success.
Although Indian stars commanded the highest bids, international players were also in high demand, especially in key defensive and goalkeeping positions. Victor Wegnez, a versatile Belgian midfielder, became the highest-priced international player, joining Soorma Hockey Club for โน40 lakh. Similarly, Alexander Hendrickx, another Belgian and a drag-flick specialist was considered the โSteal of the Dayโ after being acquired by Kalinga Lancers for just โน23 lakhs.
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Other notable international signings included Thierry Brinkman (Netherlands), bought by Kalinga Lancers for โน38 lakh, and Australian striker Blake Govers, who was secured by Tamil Nadu Dragons for โน27 lakh. These international stars are expected to elevate the overall level of competition in the league.
Goalkeepers were one of the most sought-after positions during the auction, underscoring the importance of a strong defence in modern hockey. Veteran Irish goalkeeper David Harte was snapped up by Tamil Nadu Dragons for โน32 lakh, while German goalkeeper Jean-Paul Danneberg was signed by Hyderabad Toofans for โน27 lakh. Indian goalkeeper Suraj Karkera also fetched a notable โน22 lakh, solidifying his position among Indiaโs top custodians.
Each franchise displayed unique strategies in building their squads. Soorma Hockey Club went for star power, securing both Harmanpreet Singh and Victor Wegnez to form a well-balanced lineup of Indian and international stars. In contrast, Kalinga Lancers opted for smart, value-driven signings, acquiring Alexander Hendrickx and Thierry Brinkman to strengthen their defence.
UP Rudras emphasized building on Indian talent, signing key domestic players like Hardik Singh and Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, while Hyderabad Toofans blended experience and youth, focusing on developing a solid midfield and forward line. Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers focused heavily on offensive firepower, highlighted by their marquee signing of Abhishek.
The auction demonstrated the increasing value of Indian players in the global hockey landscape. With emerging talents like Moriangthem Rabichandra and Sumit* also attracting attention, the HIL serves as a platform for Indian players to showcase their skills alongside world-class international stars, fostering their development.
