New Delhi: Former Indian hockey skipper Rani Rampal believes that the Women’s Hockey India League (HIL) can have a big impact on the sport just like the Indian Premier League (IPL) has on cricket. The former player said that this league can provide a big platform for the young girls in the country to earn team spots for the 2032 Olympics.
In an interaction with SAI Media, Rampal said that there might feature just four teams this time but kickstarting the league has been a long journey and Hockey India needs to be complimented for this. Rampal, who will serve as a mentor and coach for the Soorma HC, also said that the league will definitely grow in the upcoming years.
Inaugural edition to kickstart on January 12
The inaugural edition of the Women’s Hockey India League (HIL) will start from January 12 to January 26 in Ranchi and will feature only four teams. Delhi SG Pipers, Odisha Warriors, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, and Soorma Hockey Club will be the four sides participating the first edition of the league.
Rampal, meanwhile, also said that the men’s hockey team bagged back-to-back bronze medals in the Olympics at Tokyo and Paris because the foundation was strong and laid by the men’s Hockey India League many years back. She though thanked Hockey India for introducing the women’s HIL because of which the country will see many more talented young woman showcase their talent at the 2032 and 2036 Olympics.
The 30-year-old hockey player, who has participated in over 250 international matches for India, is embarking on her first stint as a support staff member. Meanwhile, the HIL started back in the year 2013 with six men’s teams featuring. It ran for five years before it was discontinued due to some commercial difficulties.
Former Indian hockey skipper Rani Rampal believes that the Women’s Hockey India League (HIL) can have a big impact on the sport. Other Sports Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
