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The Hockey India League, inaugurated this year, after its phenomenal success has got the eyes of country’s top corporate houses with eight of them expressing interest in owning the sixth franchise that will be added to the event next year.
The success of the inaugural edition of HIL has increased the interest among corporate houses to purchase the sixth franchise, which will represent any one of the five cities – Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bhopal and Bhubaneswar.
A source in Hockey India said, “There were no takers for the sixth franchise at this year’s HIL, but the tournament’s success has heightened the interest among corporate to buy the sixth team. Eight top corporate houses are in the running to buy the sixth franchise.”
“We are in talks with them, and whoever comes on board at the earliest will become the owner of the sixth team. The choice of the city is entirely the owner’s prerogative but they will have to select their home base out of the five cities which we have already earmarked.”
The organizers are also planning to rope in a brand ambassador for each team for the next year. An official said, “From next year there will be a brand ambassador with each team. The brand ambassador will be a renowned figure from the field of entertainment or sports.”
Hockey India secretary general and HIL chairman, Narinder Batra confirmed the news saying, “The talks are in an advanced stage and anytime the deal might be finalised. We are hoping to announce the name of the sixth franchise owner in 10-15 days time.”
The inaugural edition of HIL was won by Ranchi Rhinos, jointly owned by Bangalore-based Patel Group and Chinese Taipei-based Unixcel Group. The second edition of HIL will be held from January 23 to February 23 next year.
This year’s HIL team had five teams – Delhi Waveriders, Ranchi Rhinos, Uttar Pradesh Wizards, Jaypee Punjab Warriors and Dabur Mumbai Magicians. The league was originally planned as a six-team affair, but the sixth outfit went unsold.
Source: Economic Times
