Chennai to Host Inaugural Hockey India Masters Cup from June 18

Chennai is set to witness a nostalgic and competitive sporting spectacle as it hosts the inaugural edition of the Hockey India Masters Cup from June 18 to 27, 2025. The tournament, which will feature former Indian hockey players and veterans, is organized by the Hockey Unit of Tamil Nadu (HUTN) and will be played at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium, spotlighting the enthusiasm for the sport among veteran players.

Why in News?

The Hockey India Masters Cup 2025 marks the first edition of a national-level competition dedicated to veteran hockey players — men aged 40+ and women aged 35+. This unique initiative brings former Olympians and national players back on the turf, reigniting public interest and celebrating India’s hockey legacy.

Event Highlights

• Date: June 18 to 27, 2025
• Venue: Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium, Chennai
• Organized by: Hockey Unit of Tamil Nadu (HUTN)

Categories

• Men’s (40+ age group)
• Women’s (35+ age group)

Tournament Format

• Group matches
• Knockout stage
• Finals

Participating Teams

Men’s Teams (12 total)

• Pool A: Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala
• Pool B: Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry
• Pool C: Chandigarh, Maharashtra, Manipur
• Pool D: Haryana, Karnataka, Tripura

Women’s Teams (8 total)

• Pool A: Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Kerala
• Pool B: Odisha, Haryana, Punjab, Tamil Nadu

Significance of the Event

• Promotes active aging and sports participation among retired athletes.
• Revives interest in hockey and honors India’s hockey heritage.
• Strengthens the veteran sports ecosystem by providing a national platform.
• Aims to inspire younger generations through stories and performances of legendary players.