Hil beyond

Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers: Irish hockey legend David Harte, set to play for Tamil Nadu Dragons in the upcoming Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25, has revealed plans to use his earnings from the league to secure his family’s future. Harte, who was sold for Rs 32 Lakhs at the HIL auction, is looking forward to channelling the funds towards a new home for his family and supporting his daughters’ education.

In an exclusive interview as part of the ‘HIL Beyond the Game Series’, Harte shared his excitement about returning to India and the league. “Having experienced the HIL before, it’s the fans and the crowds in the stadiums that excite me most,” Harte said. “My very first Indian hockey experience was in New Delhi in 2013, and I was blown away by the size of the stadium and the passion of Indian supporters.”

Harte, widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, believes the revival of the HIL will significantly impact the sport globally. “I think it can only boost our sport on a global level, especially with the introduction of the women’s HIL, which is a fantastic addition,” he noted.