News Sports Hockey Indian hockey players excited about big-ticket league

Indian hockey players excited about big-ticket league

New Delhi, Dec 17:  Indian hockey players Sardar Singh and Sandeep Singh Sunday hailed the prospect of lucrative money with the Hockey Indian League (HIL) and hoped it will be the turning point for the



Asked whether he was disappointed, Sandeep said: "Money is not everything in life. The league will be a big affair. I am looking forward to play in it."



Sandeep, however, said that league will not only help the profile of the game in the country but also world hockey.

"I am sure it will be a great tournament. We not only have some of the best players in the world but also some of the top coaches are here. It will be a great learning experience," he said.

The biggest disappointment of the day, however, was former India captain and goalkeeper Chettri going unsold. The Kalingpong boy had a reserve price of $18,550.

Chettri, who led India to a last-place finish at the London Olympics, was among dropped from the Indian squad after the Games.

But India's two goalkeepers got a good deal - both being bought my Mumbai Magicians.

First choice goalkeeper P.R.Sreejesh had a reserve price of $13,900 and was sold for $38,000 while P.T Rao, who made an impressive debut at the age of 34 at the Champions Trophy, went for $17,000. Rao had a reserve price of $5,600.