In a major development for Indian hockey, star drag-flicker and national team captain, Harmanpreet Singh, emerged as the most expensive player in the Hockey India League (HIL) auction on Sunday, October 13, 2024. Surma Hockey Club snapped up Harmanpreet for an impressive Rs 78 lakh, marking the highest bid on the first day of the auction. Harmanpreet’s leadership in securing a bronze medal for India in the 2024 Olympics has made him one of the most sought-after players in the league.
The opening day of the HIL auction saw fierce competition among all eight franchises, with each team vying to sign top Indian and international hockey talent. A large portion of the spotlight was on the Indian men’s team, with several players fetching substantial bids.
Abhishek and Hardik Singh Among Top Picks
Right behind Harmanpreet, Abhishek became the second most expensive player in the auction. Shrachi Raad Bengal Tigers secured the young forward for Rs 72 lakh. Following closely, UP Rudras made a significant investment in Hardik Singh, bidding Rs 70 lakh for his services. Both players have consistently impressed on the international stage and are seen as key assets for their respective teams.
Strong Bids for Indian and International Stars
Other notable purchases included Amit Rohidas, who was bought by Tamil Nadu Dragons for Rs 48 lakh, and Jugraj Singh, who also fetched Rs 48 lakh, joining the Bengal Tigers. Indian goalkeepers also attracted attention, with Suraj Karkera and Pawan being signed for Rs 22 lakh and Rs 15 lakh, respectively.
On the international front, Ireland’s star goalkeeper, David Harte, was the top foreign pick. He was bought by Tamil Nadu Dragons for Rs 32 lakh. Other international goalkeepers, including Germany’s Jean-Paul Dannenberg, Netherlands’ Pirmin Black, and Belgium’s Vincent Vanash, were also picked up by various teams, further boosting the competition.
Full List of Sold Players
Here’s a breakdown of some of the key players sold on the first day of the HIL auction:
- Harmanpreet Singh – Surma Hockey Club – Rs 78 lakh
- Abhishek – Shrachi Raad Bengal Tigers – Rs 72 lakh
- Hardik Singh – UP Rudras – Rs 70 lakh
- Amit Rohidas – Tamil Nadu Dragons – Rs 48 lakh
- Jugraj Singh – Shrachi Raad Bengal Tigers – Rs 48 lakh
- David Harte – Tamil Nadu Dragons – Rs 32 lakh
- Jean-Paul Dannenberg – Hyderabad Storms – Rs 27 lakh
- Pirmin Black – Shrachi Raad Bengal Tigers – Rs 25 lakh
- Vincent Vanash – Surma Hockey Club – Rs 23 lakh
The auction saw a total of 26 players picked up by various teams on the first day. As the Hockey India League gears up for an exciting season, these signings are sure to add firepower and excitement to the tournament.
With big names and fresh talent joining the fray, the 2024 edition of the HIL promises to be a thrilling spectacle for hockey fans across the country.
