The Hockey India League (HIL) was established in 2013 and was a revolutionary initiative to bring back the sport of hockey in India and showcase the vast talent India has. featuring the best players in the world, gamers, HIL has been instrumental in establishing the importance of hockey as an athletic sports in India. With teams representing various locations, this league has brought thrilling games, memorable moments and intense rivalries for players and fans. In this article, we have identified the top runners-up and winners of every season, recognizing their journey as well as the venues where history was being created.
Winners List of Hockey India League
| Season | Winner | Runner-Up | Venue (Finals) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Ranchi Rhinos | Delhi Waveriders | Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, Ranchi |
| 2014 | Delhi Waveriders | Punjab Warriors | Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, Ranchi |
| 2015 | Ranchi Rays | Punjab Warriors | Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, Delhi |
| 2016 | Punjab Warriors | Kalinga Lancers | Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, Ranchi |
| 2017 | Kalinga Lancers | Dabang Mumbai | Sector 42 Stadium, Chandigarh |
| 2024-25 | TBA | TBA | Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, Ranchi |
Hockey India League 2013: Ranchi Rhinos
The first campaign of HIL in 2013 saw Ranchi Rhinos emerge as champions. Led by coach Gregg Clark and led by captain Moritz Furste The Rhinos consistently performed well throughout the competition. The final game, which took place on the Astroturf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi The Rhinos beat the Delhi Waveriders 2-1 in a thrilling game. This win was the beginning of a new era in the sport of hockey in India.
Hockey India League 2014: Delhi Waveriders
After a disappointing debut season Delhi Waveriders made a impressive recovery in 2014. Under the leadership of Sardar Singh, they beat Punjab Warriors 3-1 in a fierce shootout following the game which was a tie at 3-3 at normal time. It was a thrilling match at the Astroturf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi witnessed a thrilling final match that further affirmed the reputation of the league as a top-quality hockey.
Hockey India League 2015: Ranchi Rays
The year 2015 saw Ranchi Rays, a team that was formed following Ranchi Rhinos disbanded, formed a team. Ranchi Rhinos dissolved, upheld the city’s supremacy on the field. The team was led by the superstar athlete Ashley Jackson, they defeated Punjab Warriors in a shootout at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in Delhi. The win highlighted Ranchi’s position as a major force within Indian hockey.
Hockey India League 2016: Punjab Warriors
After two straight runners-up finishes, Punjab Warriors clinched their maiden championship in 2016. The team was led by Australian legendary Mark Knowles, the Warriors beat the Kalinga Lancers 6-1 in a spectacular performance in the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Ranchi. The victory was a resounding success that put an end to their long wait for the prized trophy.
Hockey India League 2017: Kalinga Lancers
The final game of HIL in 2017 saw the Kalinga Lancers crowned champions. The team was coached by Moritz Furste who played for the inaugural champions Ranchi Rhinos, the Lancers beat Dabang Mumbai 4-1 in the final in the Sector 42 Stadium in Chandigarh. The Lancers won was a testimony to their teamwork and consistency throughout the entire season.
Impact of the Hockey India League
HIL was more than an event; it was an opportunity to bring international players to India and let youngsters Indian players to take lessons from the top. The league played an important part in reviving the popularity of hockey across the country, and bringing fans back to the stadiums and TV screens.
Many players, including India’s upcoming stars such as Manpreet Singh, Harmanpreet Singh, and Akashdeep Singh have gained valuable experience playing against world-class players. The league also offered international players the chance to get to know the Indian hockey culture better, and to foster the exchange of cultures and respect.
