New Indian Express: Sardar, Dwyer Noted Draws

NEW DELHI: India captain Sardar Singh and drag-flicker Rupinder Pal Singh will be the star attractions during the Hockey India League (HIL) auction here on Thursday as the franchisees look to complete their respective squad for the next two editions of the tournament.

Sardar and Rupinder will be among the 135 Indians who will be up for grabs. The HIL Auction 2015 will also witness 137 foreign players — including Jamie Dwyer, Nicolas Jacobi, Andrew Hayward, Kieran Govers and Lucas Rey — from across the globe going under the hammer.

Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) proposed to hold talks with HI to resolve a stand-off which has prevented its players from participating in the HIL after their indecent behaviour during last year’s Champions Trophy.

PHF secretary and Olympian Shahbaz Ahmed said that not participating in the league was a “setback” for Pakistani players as they lose out on good pay and the opportunity to improve their game. However, captain Muhammad Imran said that HI’s demand for an apology was “childish”.