Hockey: HI announces cash incentives for Indian men and women's team for every win

Hockey India (HI) announced a historic decision on Sunday (November 7) as vowed to give cash incentives to players from both men’s and women's team for every win. The decision came just days after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the decision to give equal match fees to both men’s and women's team after every match in cricket.

According to the policy, HI will give away cash award of Rs 50,000 annually to the playing members of both the men's and women's teams and Rs 25,000 each to the support staff for every win the Indian teams register.

"I strongly believe this announcement will boost the morale of the Indian Teams as they prepare for the prestigious World Cup in January and the Asian Games.

While every player in the core group is employed, an incentive like this will attract more youngsters to play hockey," HI President Dilip Tirkey said in a release.

The governing body had announced Rs 2 lakh for each player and Rs 1 lakh for each support staff of the Indian junior men's team following their title win at the 10th Sultan of Johor Cup.

Describing it as a "landmark decision", HI secretary general Bholanath Singh said, "It will not only lift the spirit of the Indian teams to vie harder for victories but it will also make young aspiring hockey players believe that hockey can be a financially viable sport.

"I wish the Indian teams the very best in their endeavours," Bholanath Singh added.