HIL teams can retain six players

With fresh player auctions for the coming season scheduled in September, the franchises have to submit the names of their retained players by July 20.

With the initial three editions of the Hockey India League (HIL) over, things are set to change from 2016 onwards. Besides the likely addition of new franchises to the existing six teams, the composition of the teams will also vary.

The HIL on Monday announced that the existing six franchises could retain a maximum of six players each — three domestic and three international.

With fresh player auctions for the coming season scheduled in September, the franchises have to submit the names of their retained players by July 20.

The current rules state that each team must have a minimum of 10 international and 14 domestic players in their squad.

However, while Australia, which has the maximum players in HIL, has committed to releasing its players for the league, teams like Germany and the Netherlands may not allow their national team players to participate in the auction given the Rio Olympics.

More teams?
Meanwhile, Hockey India sources said a seventh team from Bengaluru was likely to be finalised in the next few days. “An eighth team, either from Pune or Chennai, was also being considered and talks are on but is unlikely to be participating in 2016,” federation officials said.

“The move is aimed at giving franchises the opportunity to retain their best talent. This will help the teams put together a healthy mix of existing good players and young newcomers.

“It will also help the franchises retain players recognised with their team and have a connection with the fan base to ensure a lasting bond,” Hockey India president Narinder Batra said.