Indian players who played the rebel World Series Hockey (WSH) organised by the Indian Hockey Federation have been granted amnesty to be brought into the players' auction for the second season of the Hockey India League (HIL) - India's official franchise-based domestic competition, Hindustan Times reported on Monday.
Hockey India (HI), India's recognised hockey body that runs the HIL, had barred all WSH players from being part of the HIL players' auction for its inaugural season last year, where Ranchi Rhinos were crowned the champions. But HI secretary general Narinder Batra confirmed to HT that they can now come under the HIL umbrella.
"The players approached us and showed their willingness to play in the HIL. Looking into their potential and future prospects, we are considering them for the mini-auction to be held in October," Batra said.
That could mean current national selectors and former India players Arjun Halappa, who left the national camp last year to play in the WSH, and Gagan Ajit Singh rubbing shoulders with a pool of players from which they have to pick India players in future team selections. But it remains to be seen what stand HI will take on their participation if they show their willingness.
Also among those pardoned will be Asian Games medallist Ravi Pal and former India striker Prabhjot Singh. The amnesty process for the rebel players started when they were permitted to play in the national championship after being snubbed for HIL's first edition. The second season of the FIH-backed league will be held in January-February next year.
Also likely is the addition of a sixth franchise to the HIL, which could be a team from Bangalore. That will open window for a number of players in the auction to be held in October. HT reported that the WSH players brought into the HIL auction have been given the opportunity to set their base price between $5600 and $15000.
HI's decision will also throw open the gates for these players to be considered for the national team. Until now, from among those who played the HIL, only Gurjinder Singh has been considered for the national squad.
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