The state-owned Coal India has become the title-sponsor for the next three editions of the Hockey India League beginning 2016. Promoted by Hockey India, the IPL-styled HIL had three editions in the past beginning 2013.
The tournament had six franchises teams from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Mumbai, Ranchi, Odisha and Punjab. Except Delhi and Punjab, the rest of the teams are from coal-bearing States.
According to a CIL release, the company sealed a deal with Hockey India to sponsor the 2016 edition of the league at a total consideration of Rs 14.73 crore. This includes Rs 13 crore sponsorship fee. The rest will go to prize money for best goal of the match, most valuable player and others.
The sponsorship fee will increase to Rs 14 crore and Rs 15 crore respectively for 2017 and 2018. Star Sports has broadcast rights for the tournament.
CIL chairman Sutirtha Bhattacharya said, “Coal India is actively involved in encouraging sporting activities in the mining areas. We felt it is time that we step into bigger shoes at the national level. This partnership is an extension of our long standing commitment to sports in India. We thank Hockey India.”