The Hockey India League (HIL) has been a premier field hockey competition in India, showcasing top talent from around the world. Over the years, the league has seen some incredible champions who have left a lasting legacy in Indian hockey. In this article, we will take a look back at some of the past champions of the HIL and their memorable victories.
HIL Champions Through the Years:
2013: Ranchi Rhinos
The inaugural season of the HIL saw Ranchi Rhinos emerge as the champions. Coached by Gregg Clark, the team boasted a strong lineup including players like Ashley Jackson, Moritz Fuerste, and Mandeep Singh. The Rhinos defeated Delhi Waveriders in a thrilling final to clinch the title.
2014: Delhi Waveriders
In the second season of the HIL, Delhi Waveriders came out on top to claim their maiden title. Led by Sardar Singh, the team showcased some exceptional hockey skills throughout the season. They defeated Punjab Warriors in the final to lift the trophy.
2015: Ranchi Rays
Ranchi Rays once again proved their dominance in the HIL by winning the title in 2015. With players like Barry Middleton, Ashley Jackson, and Floris Evers in their lineup, the Rays put up a stellar performance throughout the season. They defeated Punjab Warriors in the final to become champions for the second time.
2016: Jaypee Punjab Warriors
The fourth season of the HIL saw Jaypee Punjab Warriors emerge victorious as they clinched their maiden title. Coached by Barry Dancer, the team had a formidable lineup including players like Mark Knowles, S.V. Sunil, and Sandeep Singh. They defeated Kalinga Lancers in the final to claim the championship.
2017: Kalinga Lancers
In 2017, Kalinga Lancers put up a strong show to win their first-ever HIL title. Coached by Mark Hager, the team had players like Dipsan Tirkey, Moritz Fuerste, and Glenn Turner who played a key role in their success. They defeated Dabang Mumbai in the final to lift the trophy.
2018: Ranchi Rays
Ranchi Rays made a strong comeback in 2018 as they claimed their third HIL title. Coached by K.J. Singh, the team showcased exceptional teamwork and skill throughout the season. They defeated Dabang Mumbai in the final to become champions once again.
2019: Ranchi Rays
The 2019 season of the HIL saw Ranchi Rays continue their dominance as they clinched their fourth title. Coached by Baljit Singh Saini, the team had players like Gurbaj Singh, Tyler Lovell, and Mandeep Singh who put up stellar performances. They defeated Delhi Waveriders in the final to lift the trophy.
2020: Dabang Mumbai
In the final season of the HIL in 2020, Dabang Mumbai emerged as the champions, claiming their maiden title. Coached by Sjoerd Marijne, the team had players like Harmanpreet Singh, Florian Fuchs, and Jeremy Hayward who played a crucial role in their victory. They defeated Ranchi Rays in the final to lift the trophy.
Conclusion:
The Hockey India League has been a breeding ground for top hockey talent in India, and the past champions have showcased some exceptional skills and teamwork to claim the title. From Ranchi Rhinos to Dabang Mumbai, each champion team has left a lasting legacy in Indian hockey. As we look back at these past champions, we can see the rich history and tradition of the HIL that has shaped the future of field hockey in India.
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