Big breakthroughs to hard-earned comebacks — HIL auction produces inspiring stories despite administrative troubles

The Hockey India League (HIL) mini-auction on Wednesday underscored Hockey India’s determination to keep the league afloat amid a financial and administrative turbulence. The event in Delhi was not just a testament to the league’s resilience but also a life-changing moment for several players, both seasoned veterans and rising stars.

Vivek Lakra’s Fairytale Auction

Among the most remarkable stories of the day was that of 17-year-old junior Indian goalkeeper Vivek Lakra. Starting with a base price of just Rs. 2 lakh, he was signed by the defending champions, Shrachi Bengal Tigers, for a whopping Rs. 23 lakh. For a young man from Odisha’s Sundergarh district — a region where hockey is a way of life, but electricity is a luxury — this was a dream come true.

“I was watching the auction, and I was quite nervous. I didn’t expect my name to go that high, and when it happened, I was surprised. It is very exciting for me. I just want to give my best,” Lakra shared during a press conference on Thursday. 

Despite being a product of the renowned Panposh Academy and receiving government support for his talent, he faced significant struggles during his formative years, including a lack of his own gear. “When I started, I didn’t even have my own goalkeeper kit and had to borrow from seniors,” he recalled.

Now, as the son of a daily wage worker, this new financial stability is a huge motivation. “Everyone at home was very happy after the auction. This gives me motivation to keep working hard,” he said.

Lakra is part of the Indian squad preparing for the upcoming FIH Men’s Junior World Cup 2025. He credits his hero, double Olympic medallist coach P. R. Sreejesh, for his inspiration and guidance. “I became a goalkeeper after watching Sreejesh sir on television,” he said. “He shares his experience with us and talks about every minute detail. For us [goalkeepers], his input is more valuable.”

For the youngest member of the Junior India squad, this is just the beginning. “My dream is to play well, learn something from every opportunity, and one day represent India in the Olympics,” he concluded.

Inspiring Comebacks and Veteran Voices

The women’s auction also had a standout moment. Monika, who went unsold last season and was subsequently dropped from the national core group, made an incredible comeback. This time, she became the most expensive Indian player in the women’s auction, purchased by the Bengal Tigers for Rs. 15 lakh.

“Last year I was unsold in the league and later dropped from the national group, which was a very emotional time,” Monika said. She views the HIL as a crucial platform for all players to get noticed. “It is a great opportunity not only for youngsters, but even as a senior player you have to prove yourself again,” she added. “Playing alongside overseas players will also raise standards for everyone.”

After returning to the HIL, defender Monika hopes to use this opportunity to secure a national team spot for the upcoming Olympic cycle. “I want to prove myself. I’m not getting younger, but I’m fit and strong,” she said. “I want to get back into the Indian team, and for that, I have to perform.”

Monika also urged selectors to consider current form, not just long-term potential. “Selecting squads with the future in mind is okay, but you have to be in the present. You need to win trophies with the best players of the present.”

Veteran drag-flicker Rupinder Pal Singh was another notable name in the auction. The Olympic bronze medallist, who led Bengal Tigers to the HIL title last season, was bought by SG Pipers for Rs. 12 lakh.

Rupinder, who also works with the Junior India team as a drag-flick coach, emphasised the importance of financial security for players. “Financial support for a player is very important,” he noted. “If I have some money and I know that everything is going well at home, then I can perform better on the field without stress.”

Rupinder also praised the Hero HIL Governing Council for stepping in to take charge of the UP Rudras franchise after the owner pulled out, ensuring the same level of competition. 

“The most important thing is that the league is happening, and if these small issues are managed, it will only grow year by year,” he signed off.

Published on Sep 25, 2025