The Hockey India League's recent auction for its 2024-25 men's season witnessed the assembling of teams with remarkable talent, showcasing the league's commitment to elevating the sport's standard in the country.
Among the franchises, the Kalinga Lancers stood out, successfully securing a robust squad for the forthcoming season during the event held in Delhi on Sunday and Monday respectively.

The Lancers have managed to create a balanced team comprising defenders, midfielders, forwards, and goalkeepers, highlighting their strategic approach to the auction. Notably, their defense line includes players such as Sanjay, who commanded the highest bid among defenders at Rs 38 lakh, alongside Mandeep Mor and Alexander Hendrickx, who were bought for Rs 19 lakh and Rs 23 lakh respectively. They also added Arthur Van Doren and Antoine Kina to their ranks, showcasing their intent to build a formidable backline.
In midfield, the Lancers were strategic in their selections, opting for a mix of experience and youth. Aran Zalewski and Moriangthem Rabichandra, purchased for Rs 27 lakh and Rs 32 lakh respectively, are expected to bring stability and creativity. The inclusion of Enrique Gonzalez and Mukesh Toppo, along with Rosan Kujur and Nicholas Bandurak, further strengthens their midfield.
Forward positions saw significant investment as Dilpreet Singh, and Thierry Brinkman among the noteworthy acquisitions. Sanjay is also a magnificent signing for the Lancers.
The goalkeeping department saw India custodian Krishan Pathak emerge as the standout purchase at Rs 32 lakh, accompanied by Tobias Reynolds-Cotterill and Sahil Kumar Nayak, both secured for Rs 2 lakh.
Goalkeepers: Krishan Bahadur Pathak, Tobias Reynolds-Cotterill, Sahil Kumar Nayak
Defenders: Sanjay, Mandeep Mor, Alexander Hendrickx, Arthur Van Doren, Antoine Kina, Partap Lakra, Sushil Dhanwar, Rohit Kullu
Midfielders: Aran Zalewski, Moriangthem Rabichandra, Enrique Gonzalez, Mukesh Toppo, Rosan Kujur, Nicholas Bandurak
Forwards: Boby Singh Dhami, Dilpreet Singh, Thierry Brinkman, Angad Bir Singh, Roshan Minz, Gursahibjit Singh, Deepak Pradhan
