Hockey India League: Akashdeep Singh bags USD 84,000, becomes the costliest Indian player sold in the auctions
The charismatic Indian forward Akashdeep Singh created history by becoming the costliest Indian player ever to be bought by any Hockey India League franchise. The star bagged a cheque of USD 84,000 while his base price was just USD 20,000.
With the new rules in place for the upcoming edition of the HIL, the franchises showed great vision while selecting players for their 20-man squad. According to the new rule, the weightage for field goals will be double compared to the goals scored from the penalty corners which means while a successfully converted short corner will still count as one goal, a field goal will be considered as 'two'.
Due to the new rule in place, the franchises went for youth and skillful players instead of selecting veteran players to complete their squad.
Akashdeep has represented his nation on 78 occasions and is known for his lethal finishing. His great awareness inside the opposition circle creates a lot of opportunities for other players as well to score.
Sardar and Dwyer were bought for a low price
However, the veterans like Sardar Singh and Jamie Dwyer were bought very cheaply as compared to the young players. Sardar was bought by Jaypee Punjab Warriors for a mere price of USD 58,000 whereas Dwyer went to the Uttar Pradesh Wizards for USD 57,000.
The Indian drag-flicker Rupinder Pal Singh and striker Dharamvir Singh bagged USD 68,000 and USD 60,000, respectively from Delhi Waveriders and Kalinga Lancers against their base prices of USD 20,000 each.
“Hockey Australia did not give it a second thought to sign an MOU with Hockey India”: CEO Australian Hockey
Mr. Kelly Fairweather, Chairman, FIH said, “The League has attained a unique position in the world of Hockey. There is considerable excitement in the fraternity for the event which is growing in stature year after year. The auctions are being held in the most professional manner and are throwing many surprises in terms of bidding and choice of players. The increasing choice of opting for the younger player is an indication that the teams are keen to experiment with fresh talent,” as Hockey India League reports.
The CEO of Hockey Australia Cam Vale said, ““HIL is a very important League across the world. Hockey Australia did not give it a second thought to sign an MOU with Hockey India for the test series and releasing its players for HIL. We are committed to provide our players for the League as this also gives them a wonderful platform to play and learn from other players from across the world.”
The Hockey India League will commence from January 22 next year.