New Delhi, Oct 13 (UNI) India captain Harmanpreet Singh emerged as the highest-paid player on the opening day of the Hockey India League (HIL) 2024 Player Auction, securing a substantial ₹78 lakh deal with Soorma Hockey Club.
Harmanpreet, a star drag-flicker and pivotal figure in Indian hockey, attracted fierce competition from several franchises, ultimately surpassing all other bids.
Abhishek Nain, another standout from India's bronze medal-winning Paris Olympic squad, was not far behind, joining Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers for an impressive ₹72 lakh. His signing further highlighted the high value placed on India's homegrown talent in this year’s auction.
Foreign players also made a significant impact, with Dutch defender Lars Balk fetching ₹40 lakh after signing with UP Rudras, making him one of the most expensive overseas players.
Australian midfielder Hayden Beltz was sold to Ruhr Bengal Tigers for ₹13 lakh, while Dutch forward Jeroen Hertzberger was acquired by Team Gonasika for ₹21 lakh. Belgium's star goalkeeper Vincent Vanasch also joined Soorma Hockey Club for ₹23 lakh, adding further international calibre to the side.
However, some notable international names went unsold. Great Britain’s defender Liam Sanford, along with Australian forwards Joel Rintala, Jack Welch, and Jacob Anderson, failed to secure bids during the initial rounds, illustrating the unpredictable nature of the auction.
With several key acquisitions on Day 1, teams have already started to strengthen their squads, setting the stage for a highly competitive season ahead.
The auction will resume tomorrow, with more exciting bids expected as the Hockey India League 2024 prepares to showcase a blend of top Indian and international talent.
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