National Women’s Hockey League: Phase 1 of inaugural edition set to commence in Ranchi
The much-anticipated National Women’s Hockey League 2024-25 is all set to kick off its inaugural edition in Ranchi, Jharkhand, with the first phase commencing on April 30. The top eight teams from the 14th Hockey India Senior Women National Championship 2024 will battle it out at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astroturf Hockey Stadium in what promises to be an electrifying display of talent and teamwork.
Among the participating teams are the national champions Hockey Haryana, along with Hockey Maharashtra, Hockey Jharkhand, Hockey Madhya Pradesh, Hockey Bengal, Hockey Mizoram, Manipur Hockey, and Hockey Association of Odisha. These teams will compete in a single pool round-robin format, with each victory earning them three points and a draw securing one point. In case of a draw, a penalty shootout will determine the winner, who will earn an additional bonus point.
The league aims to provide a groundbreaking platform for emerging athletes and elevate the stature of women’s hockey in the nation. Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey expressed his excitement for the inaugural edition, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and empowerment in Indian sports. Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh highlighted the league as a testament to the potential and prowess of women athletes, aiming to inspire young girls to pursue their passion for hockey.
The opening day of the tournament will feature four thrilling matchups, with Hockey Haryana taking on Hockey Association of Odisha, Hockey Maharashtra facing Manipur Hockey, Hockey Madhya Pradesh squaring off against Hockey Bengal, and Hockey Jharkhand clashing with Hockey Mizoram. All matches will be streamed live on FanCode, providing hockey enthusiasts and fans across the country with an action-packed spectacle. Stay tuned for more updates on this historic event!