Good money, live TV make HIL a hit: Sardar Singh
By Arnab Lall Seal

RANCHI: Delhi Waveriders had a fairytale run in the league stages of the inaugural edition of the Hockey India League (HIL) but they faltered in the end, losing the final to Ranchi Rhinos.

Nevertheless, Waveriders skipper Sardar Singh, who bagged the player of the tournament award, believes the tournament has given a platform to India from where they can start rebuilding. The Indian captain also spoke about the importance of playing frequently with the higher-ranked countries. Excerpts from an interview…

How do you think HIL is going to help Indian hockey?

It’s a great initiative where the Indian players have a chance to play with foreign players. Even though most of them are Olympic and World champions, they are very down to earth and are always ready to help us. For me, personally, I have developed as a captain and know how to control the team better. I have gained a lot of experience and know exactly when to take risks and when to wait.

What is the X factor that drew players to HIL?

In other leagues the players do not get properly paid, and the matches are also not telecast live on TV. As a result, in most cases the players do not play with full commitment. But with HIL, the players know that they can earn a lot of name and fame if they play well. They even know that if they perform well this season, they might get a better price next season.

Do you feel India play enough against top-ranked countries?

The reason HIL has been such a huge success is that the players of Germany, Australia and the Netherlands are playing in it. Usually, we don’t get to play with them on a regular basis, but now, not only are we playing against them but we are also playing alongside them. But even outside HIL, we really need to play more matches against these teams to gain confidence. So when we play against them at the Olympics or World Cups, we won’t get intimidated.

What do you have to say about the Indian youngsters in HIL?

Mandeep Singh and Malak Singh have been excellent throughout the tournament. They’ve learnt a lot from the foreign players and they have used it to good effect. Danish Mujtaba has also been impressive and it’s a good decision by the selection committee to hand him the captaincy for the upcoming Sultan Azlan Shah Cup. Usually players play well for a period of 7-8 years and they should be given the chance when they are at their peak.