The Hockey Paper runs the rule over the second week of action in the returning Hockey India League
Match of the week
The Tamil Nadu Dragons, led by Jip Janssen’s hat-trick, pulled off a stunning 6-5 comeback win against Team Gonasika in a goal-fest. With under 10 seconds on the clock, Govers made a mindblowing block on the goal line to deny Gonasika an equaliser and ensure the Dragons took away their second successive outright win.
The result took Tamil Nadu Dragons to second spot on the standings behind Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, with nine points in four matches, but the only team to remain undefeated. They then usurped Bengal Tigers on Friday to take top spot after a 2-1 win.
Double 360
A sublime double pirouette from Angad Bir Singh, recalling memories of Simon Child’s effort in India.
Goal of the week
Top goalscorer
4 – Thierry Brinkman leads the way, all with field goals.
Last gasp
GB’s Tom Sorsby netted a late goal to put the Dragons top of the standings following their win over UP Rudras.
Up for grabs
The Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25 is set to distribute over INR 10 crores in prize money, making this year’s edition the most lucrative in the history of the league.
In the Men’s Hero HIL, the winning team will take home a prize of INR 3 crore, while the runners-up will be awarded INR 2 crore. The team that finishes third will receive INR 1 crore, adding extra motivation for every team to battle for the top spots.
In the Women’s Hero HIL, the stakes are equally high. The team that claims the title will win INR 1.5 crore, while the runners-up will be awarded INR 1 crore. The third-placed team will receive INR 50 lakh, marking a new era for women’s hockey.
Women set to start
The inaugural Women’s HIL starts on Sunday when Delhi Pipers take on Odisha Warriors in Ranchi.
