Which players can fetch most money at Hockey India League player auction?

Harmanpreet Singh is the leading goalscorer in 2024.

The Hockey India League player auction is upon us as Hockey India seeks to relaunch the league with eight men’s and six women’s teams respectively. The player auction will be held from 13 October to 15 October, and over 1,000 players have registered for the event. These players are divided into three different categories, each with a different base price. The base prices for the three categories are 2 lakh, 5 lakh, and 10 lakh INR. 

The auction will see more than 150 men’s and 70 women’s international players go under the hammer, whereas the distribution for the domestic players is 400 men’s and 250 women’s. With many heavyweights registering for the event and a 35-day international window provided to the Hockey India League by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), the league promises to have the cream of the crop in both, men’s and women’s teams.

Teams will be allowed a 24-member squad of which four will be junior players totalling 16 domestic and eight international players. Now let’s take a look at the five players who are likely to rake in significant bids at the player auction.

Players who could fetch most money at Hockey India League (HIL) auction

5. Aisling D’Hooghe

Aisling D’Hooghe is one of Belgium’s most accomplished goalkeepers, known for her remarkable reflexes and strong decision-making under pressure. Having been a key figure in the Belgian women’s team for over a decade, D’Hooghe has consistently delivered stellar performances at the highest level, helping elevate her nation’s profile in international hockey.

Her ability to pull off game-changing saves, combined with her leadership and organisational skills in defence, make her an invaluable player for any squad. D’Hooghe is expected to attract high bids in the Hockey India League auction as teams look to secure a reliable and experienced goalkeeper who can anchor their defensive unit.

4. Pirmin Blaak

Pirmin Blaak, the experienced goalkeeper for the Netherlands, is one of the finest shot-stoppers in the world of hockey. Known for his agility, quick reflexes, and calm demeanour under pressure, Blaak has been the backbone of the Dutch defence in numerous international tournaments.

His ability to read the game and make crucial saves in key moments has made him indispensable to his national team. As one of the most consistent goalkeepers, Blaak is expected to be a top pick in the Hockey India League auction, with teams seeking to build a solid defensive unit around him.

Also Read: Hockey India League Player Auction: Dates, live streaming, purse, players and more

3. Jip Janssen

Jip Janssen has been a standout for the Netherlands men’s team, particularly known for his exceptional drag-flicking skills and his calmness under pressure. As one of the key members of the Dutch defence, he has earned a reputation for his solid positioning and tactical acumen.

His ability to score crucial goals from penalty corners gives him an added edge in the auction. With strong performances in international tournaments, Janssen is likely to be among the top international players who will garner significant attention, as teams look to enhance their set-piece strategies with his expertise.

2. Yibbi Jansen

Dutch defender Yibbi Jansen has rapidly established herself as one of the most exciting young players in international hockey. Known for her precision in drag-flicking, scoring 20 of her total tally of 25 through PCs, she is a crucial player for the Netherlands women’s team.

Jansen’s versatility on the field—both as a strong defender and a dangerous attacking option—makes her an invaluable addition to any squad. With over 50 international caps and a growing reputation, she will likely attract big bids in the auction, particularly as teams look to solidify their defensive lines and gain an edge in penalty corner conversions.

1. Harmanpreet Singh

Widely regarded as one of the best drag-flickers in the world with 33 goals in 2024, Harmanpreet Singh is expected to be one of the top Indian players attracting significant bids in the Hockey India League 2024 auction.

With his ability to score crucial goals from penalty corners, he has been a linchpin for the Indian national team, captaining them to numerous victories, including a bronze at the Tokyo Olympics. His experience, leadership skills, and exceptional defensive abilities make him a coveted asset for any franchise.

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