The Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26 is set to enthrall fans with high-octane actions in the field. The women’s event is underway from December 28, 2025, in Ranchi, while the men’s tournament will begin on January 3, 2026.
The Women’s Hockey India League will be held entirely in Ranchi, featuring four franchises: Ranchi Royals, SG Pipers, Soorma Hockey Club, and Shrachi Bengal Tigers.
A total of 13 matches will be played in a double round-robin format, with each team facing the others twice during the league phase. Following the round-robin stage, the top two teams on the points table will qualify for the final on January 10, 2026. The compact format is expected to deliver fast-paced contests while offering emerging players a platform to push for national recognition.
The men’s tournament will feature eight franchises this season: Tamil Nadu Dragons, Hyderabad Toofans, Soorma Hockey Club, defending champions Shrachi Bengal Tigers, Kalinga Lancers, Ranchi Royals, SG Pipers, and the HIL Governing Council team, which has assumed control from the former UP Rudras franchise following its exit.
Two teams from last season, Team Gonasika and Odisha Warriors, have withdrawn.
Matches will be held across three venues: Chennai, Ranchi, and Bhubaneswar. The opening match will be held at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai on January 3, before the Ranchi leg and will conclude with the league and playoff phase at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.
Each team will play the others once in a single round-robin format, with the top four sides advancing to the playoffs. The knockout stage begins with Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator on January 23, followed by Qualifier 2 on January 25. Both the final and the third-place playoff are scheduled for January 26, 2026, at the Kalinga Stadium.
Also Read: Hockey India League: 10 Best Players With Most Goals
Hockey India League 2025-26: Live Streaming Details
The Hockey India League 2025-26 matches will be broadcast live in India on Sony Sports 1 and Doordarshan Sports. Fans can also watch the action live on Sony Sports Ten 3 SD & HD for Hindi commentary.
Live streaming will take place on on the Waves OTT platform and the Hockey India League YouTube channel.
