New Delhi

Indian hockey players Navneet Kaur and Mumtaz Khan shared their excitement about the launch of the Hockey India League (HIL) for women, believing the tournament will create future stars and help the women’s team end their Olympic medal drought.

Speaking on the sidelines of the 4th Hockey India Senior Women Inter-Departmental National Championship 2024 final, where Railway Sports Promotion Board (RSPB) defeated IndianOil Ltd 3-1, both players expressed their gratitude to Hockey India. Navneet, a key player for the Railways team with 48 goals in 161 appearances for India, said, ‘We are thrilled about the HIL. Our younger players are especially excited to learn from international players, which will benefit us greatly’.

She emphasized that the HIL will provide invaluable experience, helping the women’s team in their quest for an Olympic medal. This league will give young players exposure to international talent, preparing them to represent India at higher levels, Navneet added.

Mumtaz Khan echoed her teammate’s views, calling the HIL the best opportunity for girls, and predicting that it will help produce future stars. Both players are also eagerly preparing for the upcoming Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in Bihar, where India will defend its title. Mumtaz expressed her optimism.