Excitement is heating up in New Delhi as the Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2026 mini-auctions kick off tomorrow, September 24. Franchises are gearing up to build powerhouse teams by snapping up top hockey talent from around the world, bringing all the strategy and buzz of the sport right to the bidding table.
More than 100 men’s players and over 100 women’s players will go under the spotlight. Men’s teams face a Rs 4 crore salary cap, while women’s squads work with Rs 2 crore. Each team can roster 20 players total—two goalkeepers and 18 outfield stars—with up to seven overseas recruits and at least three young Indian juniors to nurture the next generation. Hockey India shared these details in their latest press release.
Bidding starts at three levels: Rs 2 lakhs, Rs 5 lakhs, or Rs 10 lakhs, and that’s the floor price for both Indian and international players. Teams can only jump in if they have enough budget left and open spots on the squad. They’ll also need to keep their remaining funds in check to fill out the full roster without going over.
Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey highlighted the league’s big picture. “It takes real commitment to keep a league like this thriving, especially for a sport with such deep roots as hockey,” he said. “Our goal is to open doors and create chances for the game to grow. For HIL 2026, we’re putting players’ exposure, well-being, and development front and center.”
He added that while Hockey India runs events all year, the league stands out by drawing in corporate partners. “We’re grateful to our franchises for their support in making this a success. Tomorrow’s mini-auction marks the exciting start to our second edition of HIL—I wish all teams and players the best.”
As franchises plot their moves, these auctions look set to shape strong lineups for the upcoming Hockey India League 2026 season. Fans can’t wait to see who lands where.
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