Hockey India opens player registration for Hockey India League 2026

ANI May 19, 2025 220 views

Hockey India has officially opened registrations for the 2026 Hockey India League, welcoming both Indian and international players. The league builds on the success of its revival season, featuring expanded participation from top hockey nations. Last season saw over 1,000 players register, highlighting its global appeal. Officials expect the 2026 edition to further elevate the sport’s standards in India.

"The Hockey India League has been a game changer for Indian hockey, and we are thrilled to continue its resurgence with the 2026 season." – Dr. Dilip Tirkey
New Delhi, May 19: Hockey India announced on Tuesday the opening of registrations for the Hockey India League 2026.

Key Points

1

Registrations open for Hero HIL 2026 from May to August 2025

2

Includes 8 men’s and 4 women’s franchises

3

Over 1,000 players participated last season

4

Odisha Warriors and Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers won 2024-25 titles

A statement from Hockey India said, "Hockey India today announced that player registrations for the eagerly awaited Hero Hockey India League (Hero HIL) 2026 will open at 1700 hrs on 19 May 19, 2025 and close at 1700 hrs on August 20, 2025."

Building on the resounding success of the 2024-25 revival season, which featured eight men's and four women's franchises, the upcoming edition promises to be even bigger. Registrations are open to all eligible Indian and international players, with invitations extended to athletes from the world's leading hockey nations.

Eligible Nations

Men: India, Netherlands, Belgium, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Australia, Spain, Argentina, Ireland, South Africa, New Zealand, Malaysia, South Korea

Women: India, Netherlands, Argentina, Belgium, China, Australia, Germany, Spain, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Ireland, Chile, Japan, USA, Scotland

HIL 2026 Player Registration Details:

Registration Link (for both Indian and international players): https://forms.gle/3rVoZdRXoozf9SHS6

Last season, more than 1,000 players signed up, underscoring the league's global appeal and its role as a launchpad for emerging talent.

The Odisha Warriors captured the inaugural Women's HIL crown, while Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers lifted the Men's title--achievements that epitomise the league's renewed energy and professionalism.

Commenting on the development, Hockey India President and Chairperson of the Hockey India League Governing Committee Dr Dilip Tirkey said, "The Hockey India League has been a game changer for Indian hockey, and we are thrilled to continue its resurgence with the 2026 season. Last season's response from players and fans was phenomenal, and we are confident that the upcoming edition will further elevate the standard of hockey in India while strengthening our international collaborations."

Hockey India Secretary General and Hero Hockey India League Governing Committee Member Bhola Nath Singh added, "With the success of both the men's and women's leagues last season, we are seeing a renewed interest and enthusiasm in the sport. We invite all aspiring and professional players, both from India and abroad, to seize this opportunity and register for what promises to be another landmark season."

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Great news for Indian hockey! The HIL has really revived interest in the sport. Last season was electric - especially seeing Odisha Warriors win the women's title. Hope more Indian youngsters get inspired to take up hockey now 🇮🇳🏑
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Priya M.
Why isn't Pakistan included in the eligible nations list? I know there are tensions but sports should be beyond politics. Their men's team is world class and would raise the competition level.
A
Amit S.
Dilip Tirkey sir has done wonders for Indian hockey! From player to administrator - what a journey. The league format is perfect to nurture talent. Hope we see more tribal players from Odisha/Chhattisgarh getting opportunities through this.
S
Sunita R.
The women's league is such a welcome step! Finally our female players getting proper recognition and platform. Just hope the broadcast quality improves this season - last time the camera work during matches was quite shaky 😅
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Vikram J.
Good initiative but Hockey India should ensure equal pay for men and women players. Also need more matches in smaller cities to grow the fanbase beyond traditional hockey hubs like Punjab and Odisha.
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Neha P.
Excited to see China in women's category! More Asian teams means better regional rivalry. Hope we get to see some nail-biting India vs China matches like in badminton 😊 Our girls can definitely dominate them in hockey!

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Hockey India League 2026 HIL registration Dr. Dilip Tirkey Indian hockey international hockey players