India’s Sports Ministry is exploring whether the ownership groups behind IPL franchises could provide fresh investment and commercial support for the Hockey India League as it seeks to secure the competition’s long-term sustainability, according to a report by The Hindu.
The initiative could extend beyond hockey. The Ministry is keen on IPL owners exploring opportunities in competitions including the Pro Kabaddi League and Prime Volleyball League, potentially expanding the presence of established franchise investors across Indian sport.
Cricket and hockey ownership already overlap
The concept of IPL investors entering the HIL is not entirely new. JSW, which co-owns Delhi Capitals, already operates teams in both the men’s and women’s Hockey India League.
The HIL returned for the 2024-25 season following a seven-year absence. More recently, the performance of the Indian women’s hockey team has also caught the Ministry’s attention, with the Women’s Hockey India League credited with playing a significant role in the team’s progress.
Sports Ministry sources told The Hindu: “We are also aware of the potential for a sport and refuse to believe anyone who says hockey is a loss-making proposition. It might reflect on their shortcomings, not the sport’s. The IPL owners have been positive in their responses. The HIL will happen and will continue.”
Hockey India prepares for November elections
The push to attract established franchise owners comes as Hockey India navigates its own administrative developments.
Questions emerged following an Executive Board meeting held on Friday without Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey. The meeting took place under the acting chairmanship of Tapan Das and set November 7 as the date for Hockey India elections.
Sports Ministry officials told The Hindu: “everything will be sorted (out). Neither (the) HIL nor HI is going anywhere.”
The combination of prospective investment from IPL ownership groups and the upcoming Hockey India elections leaves the HIL approaching its next phase with both its commercial structure and the federation overseeing it in focus.
