HIL: Top 5 Indian performers in the 2024-25 season

The men’s Hockey India League (HIL), revived for the first time since 2017, has provided hockey fans with thrilling moments, as both Indian players and their international peers have dazzled with remarkable performances.

As the league approaches its business end, with the final set for February 1, The Bridge takes a look at the top 5 Indian performers in the HIL.

Jugraj Singh

The Rarh Bengal Tigers defender has been the standout Indian player in the HIL. His penalty corner conversion rate with drag flick is the highest among all players in the league. With nine goals thus far, Jugraj leads the goal-scoring chart with the most penalty corners converted. His ability to defend, break into counterattacks, and earn penalty corners has been crucial in helping the Bengal Tigers top the points table.

Harmanpreet Singh

Leading from the front, Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh guided Soorma Hockey Club to the semi-finals. He is second on the goal-scoring chart among Indian players with five goals. His drag-flicking expertise proved invaluable when he scored twice in a 5-3 win over Kalinga Lancers, a must-win game for his side. As Soorma prepares for its semifinal clash against Tamil Nadu Dragons, Harmanpreet’s form will be key to its success.

Rupinder Pal Singh

The Olympic medal-winning hero of India retired from national duty after the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, but his drag-flicking prowess remains unmatched. As captain of the Rarh Bengal Tigers, Rupinder has scored five goals, including three from penalty corners. His continued brilliance has played a pivotal role in the Bengal Tigers' strong performance in the HIL.

Araijeet Singh Hundal

Although Team Gonasika could not make a significant impact in the HIL 2024-2025, India player Araijeet Singh Hundal stood out for his remarkable ability to score field goals, one of the most difficult feats in hockey. He netted three field goals and converted a penalty stroke, ranking fourth on the field goal scorers’ chart.

Sukhjeet Singh

Another key performer for the Rarh Bengal Tigers has been forward Sukhjeet Singh, whom the franchise purchased for Rs 42 lakh. Sukhjeet did not disappoint, scoring three field goals to keep his team in the hunt for the HIL title.

While these players have stood out with their goal-scoring abilities, players like Shilanand Lakra, Arshdeep Singh, Gursahibjit Singh, Hardik Singh, and Nilakanta Sharma may not have piled up goals but impressed with their distribution skills and game-building contributions.