Soorma Hockey Club Goes All Out at HIL 2024 Auction
The Hockey India League (HIL) 2024 Auction was a highly anticipated event, with teams vying for top players to strengthen their squads for the upcoming season. Soorma Hockey Club emerged as one of the biggest spenders, securing some of the most sought-after talents in Indian hockey, including the national team’s captain and drag-flick expert, Harmanpreet Singh.1
By investing in these key players, the club demonstrated its ambitions to dominate the league and become a formidable force in Indian hockey.
Table of Contents
Harmanpreet Singh: The Star Acquisition
The standout moment of the auction came when Soorma Hockey Club secured the services of Harmanpreet Singh for a whopping ₹78 lakh, making him the most expensive player at the auction.
Harmanpreet, who has become synonymous with precision drag-flicking and solid defensive skills, has been a cornerstone of the Indian national team. His leadership qualities, combined with his ability to score crucial goals from penalty corners, have made him one of the best players in the world.
Midfield Strengthened with Vivek Sagar Prasad
- In addition to Harmanpreet Singh, Soorma Hockey Club made another strategic move by signing Vivek Sagar Prasad, one of India’s most promising midfielders, for ₹50 lakh.
- Vivek’s quick thinking, excellent ball distribution, and ability to control the pace of the game have earned him a reputation as one of the top young talents in world hockey.
- At just 23 years old, Vivek Sagar Prasad has already played a crucial role in some of India’s biggest victories in recent years, including their historic bronze medal win at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
- His energy and vision in the midfield will be a vital asset for Soorma Hockey Club as they look to dominate possession and dictate the tempo of matches in the upcoming season.
Forward Line Bolstered with Gurjant Singh and Maninder Singh
To further strengthen their attack, Soorma Hockey Club added two forwards, Gurjant Singh and Maninder Singh, to their squad. Gurjant, who was signed for ₹19 lakh, has consistently demonstrated his ability to score crucial goals, often in high-pressure situations.
His versatility in playing both as a winger and a central forward makes him a valuable addition to the team’s attacking arsenal.
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Soorma Hockey Club Strengthens Their Goalkeeping Department for HIL 2024
Soorma Hockey Club, one of the most ambitious franchises in the upcoming Hockey India League (HIL) 2024 season, has made significant moves in the player auction.2
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To solidify their defense and secure the last line of defense, the club signed three talented goalkeepers: Belgian international Vincent Vanasch for ₹23 lakh, Mohith H S for ₹10 lakh, and Jashandeep Singh for ₹2 lakh.
Vincent Vanasch: World-Class Talent for ₹23 Lakh
The most high-profile signing among the three is undoubtedly Vincent Vanasch. At ₹23 lakh, the Belgian goalkeeper brings world-class experience and talent to Soorma Hockey Club. Vanasch has been a key player for Belgium’s national team, contributing significantly to their rise as one of the top hockey nations.3
His impressive résumé includes winning the gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and being named the Best Goalkeeper in the world multiple times.
Mohith H S: Rising Star in Indian Hockey
At ₹10 lakh, Mohith H S is an exciting young talent who has been making waves in Indian hockey. As a rising star, he has shown tremendous promise with his sharp goalkeeping skills and consistent performances in domestic tournaments.
His inclusion in the Soorma Hockey Club squad is a strategic move to ensure a solid backup option while also nurturing future talent.
Jashandeep Singh: A Budget Signing with Big Potential
- The third goalkeeper signed by Soorma Hockey Club, Jashandeep Singh, comes in as a budget signing at ₹2 lakh. Though not as well-known as Vanasch or Mohith, Jashandeep brings his own set of strengths to the squad.
- His inclusion reflects the club’s forward-thinking approach, allowing them to invest in a young and potentially valuable player for the future.
- Jashandeep is known for his dedication and work ethic, both key attributes for a player looking to prove himself on a big stage like the HIL.
- As the third-choice goalkeeper, he will have the opportunity to develop his skills and gain valuable experience while being part of a squad that is aiming for success in the league.
- Jashandeep’s determination to grow and his willingness to learn from experienced players like Vanasch make him an asset that the club can cultivate for the long term.
Early Days: The Humble Beginnings of Harmanpreet Singh
Harmanpreet Singh, one of India’s most prominent hockey players, was born on January 6, 1996, in the small township of Jandiala Guru, located in Amritsar, Punjab. Growing up in a farming family, Harmanpreet’s early life was deeply rooted in the agricultural traditions of his village.
Like many children of farming families in rural India, he spent much of his childhood helping with farm work. During his time away from school, Harmanpreet could often be found on his father’s tractor, lending a hand with the daily chores.
The Introduction to Hockey: A Love for the Game
Harmanpreet’s journey into the world of hockey started at a young age. Growing up in Punjab, where hockey has always been a popular sport, he was naturally attracted to the game. It was at a local hockey academy in his village that he first began playing seriously.
Proud to reclaim the #AsianChampionsTrophy after a hard-fought Final in China! 🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆
We exemplified what it truly means to work as a team, and backed each other at all times.
Thank you to fans for constant support and also a special thanks to our heroes behind the scenes -… pic.twitter.com/Hj5fmaMYjX
— Harmanpreet Singh 🇮🇳 (@13harmanpreet) September 17, 2024
The combination of his natural talent, determination, and support from his family helped him improve quickly.
Rise Through the Ranks: From Local Talent to National Star
Harmanpreet’s skills on the hockey field quickly caught the attention of local coaches and players. His remarkable ability to execute drag-flicks, which would later become his signature move, set him apart from others in his age group.
As he honed his skills, Harmanpreet joined the Surjit Hockey Academy in Jalandhar, a significant step that would pave the way for his future career.
Breakthrough in the International Arena
Harmanpreet Singh’s big moment arrived when he made his debut for the senior Indian national hockey team. His inclusion in the senior squad was a testament to his talent, hard work, and perseverance. Known for his powerful drag-flicks and strong defensive play, Harmanpreet quickly became a key player for the team.
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Career: Harmanpreet Singh’s Rise in Indian Hockey
Harmanpreet Singh’s hockey career began in earnest when he made his debut for the Indian junior national team in 2014. His early performances showcased the immense potential he possessed, particularly his prowess as a drag-flicker.
The turning point in his junior career came at the 2014 Sultan of Johor Cup, where his outstanding performance earned him the title of Player of the Tournament. This accolade was a testament to his talent and dedication, and it helped him gain recognition within the Indian hockey fraternity.
Breakthrough in the Junior National Team
The Sultan of Johor Cup, an international under-21 field hockey tournament held annually in Malaysia, proved to be the perfect platform for Harmanpreet to announce his arrival on the international stage. His ability to perform under pressure and score crucial goals through drag-flicks set him apart from his peers.
His performances in this tournament also caught the attention of senior national team selectors, who saw in him a player ready to make the leap to the highest level.
Senior Team Debut and Early Success
- Harmanpreet Singh made his senior debut for India in 2015 in a match against Japan, a momentous occasion that marked the beginning of his journey with the national team.
- It was not long before he established himself as a key player for the team, particularly as a drag-flick specialist. His ability to score from penalty corners became a critical asset for India, helping the team secure important victories in international competitions.
- One of Harmanpreet’s early career milestones came when he was selected for the 2016 Rio Olympics, where he represented India on the grandest stage of them all.
- Competing at the Olympics was a dream come true for the young defender, and although India didn’t win a medal, Harmanpreet’s experience at the Games was invaluable in shaping him into a seasoned player.
Cementing His Place in the Indian Hockey Team
Following his Olympic debut, Harmanpreet continued to evolve as a player, gaining confidence and maturity with each passing tournament. His exceptional drag-flicking skills made him a regular feature in India’s penalty corner routines, and his defensive capabilities solidified his place in the national team’s backline.
Harmanpreet Singh’s Net Worth: A Rising Star in Indian Hockey
Harmanpreet Singh, the captain of the Indian men’s hockey team, has quickly ascended the ranks to become one of the wealthiest hockey players in the country. His net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, which is approximately Rs. 42 crore as of 2024.
This remarkable financial success comes as a result of his impressive performances on the field, endorsement deals, and significant earnings from domestic and international competitions, particularly through the Hockey India League (HIL).
Sources of Harmanpreet Singh’s Income
One of the key contributors to Harmanpreet Singh’s growing wealth has been his participation in the Hockey India League (HIL). This league, which brings together the best of Indian talent and international players, has played a pivotal role in raising the profile of hockey in India.
In the 2024 HIL Auction, Harmanpreet was signed by Soorma Hockey Club for ₹78 lakh, making him the highest-paid player in the league that year. This massive contract highlights his stature in Indian hockey and the value teams place on his contributions.
International Match Fees and Bonuses
Harmanpreet’s success with the Indian national team, including the historic bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, has contributed to his overall earnings. As a top-tier player and captain of the national team, he receives substantial match fees, performance bonuses, and other financial incentives from the Hockey India Federation.
His contributions to the team’s success in major international tournaments like the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and the Olympics have also led to financial rewards from both the Indian government and private organizations.
Endorsements and Sponsorships
Harmanpreet Singh’s rising profile in the world of Indian sports has attracted several lucrative endorsement deals. With hockey growing in popularity again, companies are keen to associate themselves with top players like Harmanpreet.
He has partnered with various sports brands, apparel companies, and other lifestyle brands that see value in his leadership and performance on the field. These endorsements add a significant boost to his overall income, contributing heavily to his net worth.
`FAQ’S
1. Who is Harmanpreet Singh?
Ans: Harmanpreet Singh is an Indian field hockey player, primarily known for his role as a drag-flick specialist and defender. He is the captain of the Indian men’s national hockey team and has been instrumental in their success, including winning a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
2. Who is Vivek Sagar Prasad?
Ans: Vivek Sagar Prasad is a young and talented midfielder in the Indian men’s field hockey team. He made history as one of the youngest players to win an Olympic medal in hockey when India secured bronze in Tokyo 2020. Prasad is known for his playmaking abilities and leadership on the field.
3. What is the Soorma Hockey Club?
Ans: Soorma Hockey Club is one of the teams competing in the Hockey India League (HIL), a professional field hockey league in India. The club is known for assembling strong squads with both experienced and rising hockey talents, making them a formidable team in the tournament.
4. What is the significance of Harmanpreet Singh and Vivek Sagar Prasad leading the Soorma Hockey Club?
Ans: Having both Harmanpreet Singh and Vivek Sagar Prasad headline the Soorma Hockey Club squad for the HIL 2024-25 season brings star power and leadership to the team. Harmanpreet’s defensive skills and drag-flicking ability, combined with Prasad’s midfield control and vision, make them key players who could drive the club’s success.
5. What are the expectations for Soorma Hockey Club in HIL 2024-25?
Ans: With top players like Harmanpreet Singh and Vivek Sagar Prasad leading the squad, Soorma Hockey Club is expected to be a strong contender in the HIL 2024-25 season. Fans and analysts are optimistic about the team’s chances of making a deep run in the tournament, potentially vying for the championship.
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