New Delhi: Hockey India (HI) on Thursday announced the schedule for the Hockey India League (HIL) which will start from January 25 at Mohali with the final scheduled for February 23 in Ranchi. A total of 34 matches will be played in a span of 30 days in Mohali, Ranchi, New Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow and Bhubaneswar with the opening ceremony scheduled to be held on same day as the opening match.
The opening day will witness Jaypee Punjab Warriors against the 2013 runners-up Delhi Waveriders. Defending champions Ranchi Rhinos will be in action on January 26 when they take on Uttar Pradesh Wizards at home while the Warriors will play their second match against Mumbai Magicians at Mohali on the same day.
The replay of last year's final between the Rhinos and the Waveriders will take place January 27 in Ranchi. The next day will see Kalinga Lancers play for the first time in the league against the Warriors on their home ground, Bhubhaneswar.
Mumbai hockey fans will witness the first match of the tourney January 29 when the Magicians host the Wizards.
The semifinals and final will be played in Ranchi Jan 22 and 23, respectively.