The men’s Hockey India League (HIL) 2026 springs into action today, marking the return of India’s premier domestic hockey competition with renewed energy, fresh rivalries and a star-studded line-up of teams and players. The season opener will see Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons lock horns with Hyderabad Toofans at the iconic Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai, setting the tone for an action-packed league.
The opening fixture promises fireworks, with the Dragons banking on home support and youthful exuberance, while last season’s runners-up Hyderabad Toofans arrive determined to start their title campaign on a strong note.
The Chennai leg of the tournament will run from January 3 to 9, after which the league moves to Ranchi from January 11 to 16, before culminating in Bhubaneswar with the playoffs and final scheduled for January 26.
Teams
Shrachi Bengal Tigers
Defending champions Shrachi Bengal Tigers begin their title defence with much of their championship-winning core intact. Now led by drag-flick specialist Jugraj Singh following the exit of Rupinder Pal Singh, the Tigers will once again rely heavily on their penalty-corner prowess, with Jugraj coming off a prolific season that saw him finish as the league’s top scorer and final-day hero.
Hyderabad Toofans
Last season’s finalists Hyderabad Toofans, coached by Pasha Gademan, will look to erase the memory of their narrow defeat in the final. Known for their fast-paced attacking style, the Toofans have seen impressive growth from young Indian players including Amandeep Lakra and Arshdeep Singh, while England midfielder Zachary Wallace adds creativity and balance in the middle of the park.
JSW Soorma Hockey Club
JSW Soorma Hockey Club enter the season under new Belgian coach Philippe Goldberg, with Indian hockey great Sardar Singh acting as mentor. Led by India captain Harmanpreet Singh, whose leadership and drag-flicking ability remain central to their ambitions, Soorma will be aiming for consistency and a deep run into the playoffs.
Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons,
Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons, semifinalists last season, will be eager to make a strong start in front of their home fans. Despite the absence of drag-flicker Jip Janssen, the Dragons boast attacking options in Blake Govers and Nathan Ephraums, while young goalkeeper Princedeep Singh—who impressed at the Junior World Cup—will be a key figure at the back.
Ranchi Royals
The league also welcomes Ranchi Royals, the newest franchise, led by veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh. With India internationals Mandeep Singh and Araijeet Singh Hundal providing support and Belgian star Tom Boon, the FIH Player of the Year 2025, spearheading the attack, the Royals bring immediate credibility and excitement to the competition.
SG Pipers
After a challenging previous season, SG Pipers will look to turn the tide under new coach Tim Oudenaller. Captain Jarmanpreet Singh anchors the defence, while Argentine forward Tomás Domene offers proven goal-scoring ability as the team eyes a resurgence.
Kalinga Lancers
Kalinga Lancers, among the most attacking sides last season, will seek greater defensive solidity this time around. Though they will miss Thierry Brinkman, Belgian drag-flick specialist Alexander Hendrickx ensures they remain a constant threat from penalty corners.
HIL GC
Replacing UP Rudras is HIL GC, a Hockey India–governed side led by midfield mainstay Hardik Singh. Their strength lies in controlling the tempo, with Hardik and young Manmeet Singh forming a promising midfield combination that could trouble more established teams.
With a compact format, high-quality squads and a blockbuster opening clash in Chennai, the men’s Hockey India League 2026 is set to deliver another thrilling chapter in Indian hockey’s domestic calendar.
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