Indian midfielder Hardik Singh has been appointed as the captain of the HIL Governing Council Team for the upcoming Men’s Hockey India League, set to commence on January 3 at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai. The HIL Governing Council has assumed control from the UP Rudras franchise for the 2026 season to ensure player continuity, with their first match scheduled for January 5 against SG Pipers.
Hardik will lead a team that includes a blend of seasoned players like Lalit Upadhyay, Sam Ward, Surender Kumar, Kane Rusell, and promising talents from the India Colts squad, such as Gurjot Singh, Manmeet Singh, and Talem Priyoborta, who recently secured a Bronze at the FIH Junior Men’s Hockey World Cup. Expressing his gratitude for the captaincy role, Hardik stated, “I am thankful for this opportunity and eagerly anticipate it. Leading a team through the highs and lows of a season is always thrilling.”
The Men’s Hockey India League 2026 season will feature eight franchises, including Tamil Nadu Dragons, Hyderabad Toofans, JSW Soorma Hockey Club, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers (the defending champions), Vedanta Kalinga Lancers, Ranchi Royals, SG Pipers, and HIL Governing Council. The league will follow a single round-robin format with 23 league matches, followed by playoffs and a grand final on January 26 at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, totaling 33 matches of high intensity.
The action will kick off on January 3 at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai, move to Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh AstroTurf in Ranchi, and conclude in Bhubaneswar at Kalinga Stadium. The matches will feature Indian talents facing off against international players in daily double-headers, creating an atmosphere that mirrors FIH competitions and enhances fan engagement through packed venues and themed events.
