Men’s Hockey India League Kicks Off in Chennai
The anticipation for a new champion is about to be over as the Men’s Hero Hockey India League (HIL) begins on Saturday, January 3, 2026, in Chennai. The action will start at the famed Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium, setting the stage for the league’s second season after its revival.
This year’s tournament will take place in various cities, starting in Chennai and moving on to Ranchi, with the grand finale set for January 26, 2026, in Bhubaneswar. Hockey India is excited to bring this tournament to multiple hockey-loving cities, ensuring that more fans can witness top-notch games featuring elite players from all over the globe.
The opening match will feature the home team, Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons, squaring off against the Hyderabad Toofans. Last season, the Toofans finished as runners-up, losing 3-4 to Shrachi Bengal Tigers in a close final. They are determined to improve this time around. Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu Dragons aim for a strong start, having just missed out on third place last season after a 2-3 defeat to JSW Soorma Hockey Club.
This season will introduce a new single round-robin format, moving away from the earlier group division. The top four teams will advance to the playoffs. The leading two teams will compete in Qualifier 1, with the winner heading directly to the final, while the loser will have a second chance in Qualifier 2. The other spot in Qualifier 2 will be decided by an Eliminator match between the teams finishing third and fourth.
The league will feature eight teams this season, including defending champions Shrachi Bengal Tigers, Hyderabad Toofans, JSW Soorma Hockey Club, SG Pipers, Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons, Vedanta Kalinga Lancers, Ranchi Royals, and HIL GC, which has replaced UP Rudras.
Several well-known Indian players will be showcasing their skills, such as national captain Harmanpreet Singh representing JSW Soorma Hockey Club, while Manpreet Singh will play for Ranchi Royals. SG Pipers will welcome back Rupinder Pal Singh. Excitingly, members from India’s Junior World Cup bronze medal team, including captain Rohit, will also participate.
The tournament will not only highlight national talent but also feature international stars like Tom Boon for Ranchi Royals and Vincent Vanasch for JSW Soorma Hockey Club, promising an exciting display of talent and skill.
Men’s Hockey India League: Full Schedule
- Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons vs Hyderabad Toofans – January 3, 2026 – 8:15 PM IST – Chennai
- JSW Soorma Hockey Club vs Shrachi Bengal Tigers – January 4, 2026 – 6:15 PM IST – Chennai
- Vedanta Kalinga Lancers vs Ranchi Royals – January 4, 2026 – 8:15 PM IST – Chennai
- SG Pipers vs HIL GC – January 5, 2026 – 8:15 PM IST – Chennai
- Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons vs JSW Soorma Hockey Club – January 6, 2026 – 8:15 PM IST – Chennai
The excitement continues with matches planned throughout January, leading up to the final showdown in Bhubaneswar.
Where to Watch?
Fans can catch every match of the Hero Hockey India League live on Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 3, and DD Sports. The matches will also be streamed live on Waves and the official YouTube channel of the Hockey India League.
Stay tuned for thrilling hockey action!
