Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers Clinch 6th Men's HIL 2024-25 Championship Title.
Sports
In February 2025, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers won their first-ever title in the Men's Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25 by defeating Hyderabad Toofans 4-3 in the final. The championship match took place at the Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium in Rourkela, Odisha. This victory marked a historic moment for the Bengal-based team in the tournament’s history.
- The 6th edition of the Men's HIL 2024-25 featured eight teams and was held from December 28, 2024, to February 1, 2025. The competition showcased high-intensity hockey action, with top domestic and international players participating. Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers were captained by Rupinder Pal Singh, while Hyderabad Toofans were led by Sumit Walmiki.
- As part of the prize distribution, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers received Rs 3 crore for winning the title, whereas Hyderabad Toofans, the runners-up, were awarded Rs 2 crore. The financial incentives were aimed at encouraging competitive performance and boosting the league’s popularity.
- The final match saw Jugraj Singh's brilliant hat-trick (25', 32', 35') and a decisive goal from Sam Lane (54’) securing the victory for Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers. Hyderabad Toofans put up a strong fight, with Gonzalo Peillat scoring twice (9', 39') and Amandeep Lakra contributing (26'), but they ultimately fell short in the 4-3 contest.
Main Point :- (i) Key individual awards of the Men's HIL 2024-25 included Jugraj Singh (Top Scorer), Sukhjeet Singh (Player of the Tournament), and Bikramjit Singh (Best Goalkeeper). Arshdeep Singh was named Upcoming Player, while UP Rudras won the Fairplay Award.
(ii) The Men's Hockey India League (HIL), organized by Hockey India, began in 2013 and ran until 2017 before returning with its 6th edition in 2024-25. Kalinga Lancers were the previous champions in 2017.
(iii) In January 2025, Odisha Warriors won the inaugural Women's HIL 2024-25, defeating Soorma Hockey Club 2-1 in Ranchi, Jharkhand, marking a milestone in Indian women's hockey.
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President : Dr. Dilip Kumar Tirkey
Headquarters : New Delhi
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