The players’ auction for the Hockey India League (HIL) has been postponed from December 1 to December 16. Subsequently, the league too has been postponed and will commence from January 17.
“Some of the coaches involved with the league are busy as the FIH Champions Trophy starts in Melbourne from December 1, and couldn’t have participated in the auction,” HIL chairman, Narinder Batra, said in a statement.
“Since the franchises expressed concern that the coaches could not be present for the auction, to pick players, it was necessary to reschedule the event,” said Batra.
Almost all the top players expected to compete in the HIL are representing their nations in the Champions Trophy, which will see India, Olympic champions Germany, England, the Netherlands, Belgium, Pakistan, New Zealand and hosts Australia compete for top honours.
The statement further said, “The change of dates will also enable HIL to invite all six marquee players to be present at the auction and assist their franchises in team formation after they are selected through the auction.”
HIL officials have also informed the International Hockey Federation on the change of dates.
{{/usCountry}}HIL officials have also informed the International Hockey Federation on the change of dates.
{{/usCountry}}The league was originally scheduled between January 5 and February 3, but will now commence from January 17 and conclude on February 17.