The country’s budding hockey stars are preparing hard under tents for the national championships. The national selectors will be on hand to find new talent. The domestic season kicks off this year with the all-important 13th Indian Senior Hockey Championships
2023 starting on February 15 in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh. Last year’s winner Odisha will be looking to defend his title, while runners-up Karnataka will be hoping to avenge their 2-0 defeat in the final.
A total of 29 teams will come to Kakinada to take part in the prestigious tournament. Bengaluru’s Hockey fans can take part in exciting activities with the country’s top PSUs competing in the 3rd Indian Interdivisional Senior Hockey Championship 2023 scheduled for February 26th.
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Previously, Rail Sports Promotion Council defeated Oil Sports Promotion Council 3-1 in a thrilling shootout to claim the honour. Services Sports Inspection Council defeated Punjab National Bank to finish third. After the first edition of this newly launched national league exclusively for the PSU, players like Jugraj Singh and Sukhjeet Singh were called up to the National Senior Coaches Camp 2022.So, they also made their debut with the national team.
Hockey will return to Rourkela in March for FIH Hockey Pro League home games against Germany and Australia.The home season continues in April with the 2023 Indian Senior Hockey Championships. Haryana was crowned champion last year after beating Tamil Nadu 3-1 in a tight shootout.On the other side, Karnataka edged Maharashtra 4-3 in the third-fourth-place match.
At the start of the domestic season, Padma Shri, President of Hockey India, said to Dr. Dilip Tirkey: “I wish all players the best as they prepare for the prestigious national championship.
These tournaments will be a stepping stone to the promising careers of many aspiring hockey players in the country. We have some very talented players waiting to be noticed by the national team and this annual championship is key to expanding the talent pool going forward.
Hockey India, with the help of our hosting member units, will provide all participating teams with the best facilities for optimal performance.
Hockey India will also announce dates for its other age groups and varsity leagues scheduled for later this year.
