The Hockey India League (HIL) kicked off in 2013 with five men’s teams: Mumbai Magicians, Ranchi Rhinos, Uttar Pradesh Wizards, Delhi Waveriders, and Punjab Warriors. Ranchi Rhinos made history by winning the first championship, defeating Delhi Waveriders 2-1 in the final.
In 2014, the league expanded to six teams with the addition of Kalinga Lancers. Teams played each other twice in the league phase, and the top four moved on to the semi-finals. Delhi Waveriders claimed the trophy that year after a dramatic penalty shootout against Punjab Warriors, tying 3-3 before winning 3-1 on penalties.
2015 saw changes in team line-ups. Ranchi Rhinos were replaced by Ranchi Rays, and Mumbai Magicians gave way to Dabang Mumbai. Punjab Warriors faced heartbreak again, losing another final to Ranchi Rays, finishing 2-2 in regulation and losing 3-2 in the shootout.
Finally, in 2016, Punjab Warriors celebrated victory, crushing Kalinga Lancers 6-1 in the championship match. Kalinga Lancers later bounced back to win the fifth edition, beating Dabang Mumbai 4-1.
After a seven-year pause, the HIL is set to return for its sixth edition in 2024-25. This upcoming season will see an expanded format with eight men’s teams and the introduction of a women’s league featuring four teams.
The new men’s teams for 2024-25 include Soorma Hockey Club, Team Gonasika, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, Tamil Nadu Dragons, Hyderabad Toofans, UP Rudras, and Delhi SG Pipers, with Kalinga Lancers being the only returning team. Similarly, the women’s league will debut with teams like Soorma Hockey Club, Delhi SG Pipers, Odisha Warriors, and Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers participating.
