Indian midfield star leads talented squad in Hockey India League.

Indian hockey sensation Hardik Singh is set to take on a massive leadership role for the upcoming Hockey India League (HIL) 2026. The HIL Governing Council officially named the dynamic midfielder as the captain of their squad. This team, which has stepped in to manage operations from the former UP Rudras franchise, will begin its journey on January 5 against the SG Pipers at Chennai's Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium.

Expressing his pride in the new role, Hardik shared his enthusiasm for guiding a roster that blends veteran wisdom with youthful energy. He emphasized that being in a leadership position is a thrilling challenge, especially when navigating the intense highs and lows of a competitive league season.

The squad Hardik leads is a formidable mix of talent. It features established international stars like Lalit Upadhyay, Sam Ward, Surender Kumar, and Kane Russell. Adding a fresh spark to the lineup are the rising stars of the India Colts, including Gurjot Singh, Manmeet Singh, and Talem Priyoborta, who recently secured a bronze medal at the FIH Junior Men’s Hockey World Cup. This exchange of knowledge between local juniors and international imports is expected to be a major highlight for the team.

The 2026 season of the Men's Hero Hockey India League features eight powerhouse franchises, including the defending champions Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers and the local favorite Vedanta Kalinga Lancers. The tournament follows a single round-robin format, packing 33 high-stakes matches into a tight schedule.

Fans in Odisha have much to look forward to, as the tournament's climax will take place on home turf. While the action starts in Chennai on January 3 and moves to Ranchi by mid-month, the final leg will be hosted at the iconic Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar from January 17 to 26. The grand final is scheduled for Republic Day, ensuring a spectacular finish to one of the most anticipated hockey events in the country.