Harmanpreet Singh Becomes Most Expensive Buy in Hockey India League Auction
India’s star drag-flicker and captain, Harmanpreet Singh, emerged as the most expensive player in the Hockey India League auction on Day 1. Soorma Hockey Club secured the services of the Indian captain for a whopping Rs 78 lakh, marking the highest bid on the first day of the auction, held on Sunday. A total of 54 players, including 18 international stars, went under the hammer as eight franchises vied to strengthen their squads with top talents from India and abroad.
The auction saw franchises spending heavily on players who form the core of the Indian men’s hockey team. Following Harmanpreet Singh, forward Abhishek became the second-most expensive buy of the day, as he was snapped up by Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers for Rs 72 lakh. Close behind him was Hardik Singh, who was acquired by UP Rudras for Rs 70 lakh.
Other notable Indian players who fetched high prices included Amit Rohidas, who was signed by Tamil Nadu Dragons for Rs 48 lakh, and Jugraj Singh, who went to Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers for the same amount. The franchises clearly prioritized securing Indian talents, particularly those with national team experience, in the early stages of the auction.
While Indian players dominated the top slots, several foreign players also saw significant interest. Leading the list of international buys was Germany’s Gonzalo Peillat, a highly skilled drag-flicker, who was purchased by Hyderabad Toofans for Rs 68 lakh. Peillat’s exceptional goal-scoring ability, particularly in penalty corner situations, made him one of the most sought-after overseas players.
Other international stars included Netherlands’ Jip Janssen, who was bought by Tamil Nadu Dragons for Rs 54 lakh, and Ireland’s David Harte, who became the top goalkeeper buy, going to Tamil Nadu Dragons for Rs 32 lakh.
The auction saw a competitive bidding war for both Indian and foreign goalkeepers. Among the Indian goalkeepers, Suraj Karkera was sold to Team Gonasika for Rs 22 lakh, while Pawan went to Delhi SG Pipers for Rs 15 lakh. On the international front, goalkeepers like Jean-Paul Danneberg (Germany) and Vincent Vanasch (Belgium) also attracted significant bids.
The first day of the auction saw Rs 16.88 crore being spent across eight franchises, showcasing the level of investment in building competitive squads. Each team focused on creating a balance between experienced Indian players and top international talents. This strategy is expected to strengthen the competitive nature of the league and enhance the quality of hockey played.
One notable feature of the auction was the emphasis placed on youth and leadership. Vivek Sagar Prasad, a rising star in Indian hockey, was bought by Soorma Hockey Club for Rs 40 lakh, while veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh was snapped up by Team Gonasika for Rs 42 lakh. These players bring a wealth of experience from their international careers and are expected to provide leadership and drive to their respective teams.
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