Fewer players, shorter and faster matches: Hockey catches IPL fever

Uthra G Chaturvedi

With IPL setting the pace, hockey now is set to get a faster, truncated avatar, music on the field and cameras in locker rooms, plus a whole new title: International Super Series.

In an attempt to popularise field hockey, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) is planning a format with nine-a-side teams and 30-minute matches, divided into two 15-minute halves. The first tournament in this format will be held in October in Perth, featuring hosts Australia, and India, Pakistan, Malaysia and New Zealand.

The event is being organised on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

Coach Ric Charlesworth said: “These rules will increase the pace of the game. They will encourage attacking hockey, which will undoubtedly help us gain a few new fans along the way.”

FIH development manager Gabrielle van Doorn said they would be watching the Perth tournament closely. “We have been working on developing a format that would complement the conventional form of the game for a while… By the year-end, things will be clear. That is when it will be decided if the new format will be be six-, eight- or nine-a-side,” she said.

The Indians have welcomed the move. “It will not only make the game faster but also help assess and improve the players’ fitness and skills,” said national coach Harender Singh.

In other tips from IPL, the matches will have music on the PA system, and umpires and select players will wear earpieces for on-field interviews. The clincher may be cameras in the locker room during the break.