The Hockey India League (HIL) is making a comeback after a seven-year break, with an exciting new edition set to take place later this year. This season will showcase the competitive spirit of eight men’s teams and six women’s teams. The matches are scheduled to be held at two dynamic venues—Rourkela and Ranchi. The much-awaited action is scheduled to commence on December 28, accompanied by a spectacular opening ceremony in Rourkela on the same day.

The Hockey India League recently conducted a highly anticipated auction for the men’s franchise for the 2024-25 season. Over two intense days, on Sunday and Monday (13th and 14th October), all eight franchisees fiercely vied for their preferred stars, aiming to secure them for their teams from a pool of talented national and overseas players.

Harmanpreet Singh was acquired by Soorma Hockey Club for a record price of 72 lakhs, making him the most expensive player. Additionally, Tamil Nadu Dragons secured the Indian team defender Amit Rohidas for 48 lakhs, marking the highest amount paid for a player in their team. Rohidas plays a crucial role in the Indian backline, serving as the primary rusher during Penalty Corner defences. He was a key member of the Indian squad that secured the bronze medal at the 2020 Olympics.

Hockey India League 2024-25: Tamil Nadu Dragons full squad

Goalkeepers: David Harte, Duco Telgenkamp, Prince Deep Singh

Defenders: Amit Rohidas, Jip Janssen, Kothajit Singh, Moritz Ludwig, Anand Y, Anand Lakra

Midfielders: Thies Prinz, Tom Craig, Mohd. Raeel Mouseen, Govers Blake, Chandan Yadav, Shesha Gowda

Forwards: Selvam Karthi, Nathan Ephraums, Majji Ganesh, Uttam Singh, Abharan Sudev

Tamil Nadu Dragons - Top Five Buys

1. Jip Janssen - Rs 54 Lakh
2. Amit Rohidas - Rs 48 Lakh
3. Duco Telgenkamp - Rs 36 Lakh
4. David Harte - Rs 32 Lakh
5. Govers Blake - Rs 27 Lakh