Daijiworld Media Network - Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar, Dec 26: India’s top men’s hockey players, captain Harmanpreet Singh and midfielder Hardik Singh, are gearing up for the upcoming Hockey India League (HIL), starting January 3, using it as a key preparation platform ahead of a busy international calendar in 2026, which includes the FIH Pro League, World Cup, and Asian Games in Japan.
Harmanpreet, representing JSW Soorma Hockey Club, said the league offers a high standard of competition akin to international matches, making it ideal for players to find form quickly. “The HIL comes at the perfect time for all of us in the Indian team. The standard across franchises is very high, so every game will feel like an international match,” he noted.
The India captain also highlighted the opportunity for mentoring younger players and building leadership depth. “If we set the tone with our work rate, penalty-corner execution, and defensive organisation here, it will carry directly into our performances for India later in the year. The goal is clear — have a strong HIL season and then convert that confidence into medals for the country,” he added.
Olympian Hardik Singh, leading the midfield for the HIL Governing Council team, emphasized the league’s intensity and tactical variety as ideal preparation for the international season. “Week in, week out, you face different styles, top drag-flickers, fast forwards, and tight defensive units. If we can execute our plans here and maintain consistency, it will help carry that rhythm into the Pro League, World Cup, and Asian Games,” he said.
Hardik also expressed his intent to take on more responsibility in both defence and attack to reach India duty in peak shape.
The men’s HIL 2026 features eight franchises — Tamil Nadu Dragons, Hyderabad Toofans, JSW Soorma Hockey Club, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers (defending champions), Vedanta Kalinga Lancers, Ranchi Royals, SG Pipers, and HIL Governing Council — competing in a single round-robin format with 23 league matches followed by playoffs. The final is scheduled for January 26 at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar.