The 15th edition of the Hockey India Senior Men National Championship began today at the Major Dhyan Chand Hockey Stadium in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, bringing together 30 teams from across the country in a newly introduced division-based format. The tournament, running from April 4 to 15, aims to elevate the level of domestic hockey with the introduction of promotion and relegation battles—a structure first implemented in the women’s championship in March.
This format divides the teams into three tiers—Divisions A, B, and C—with each division having its own set of stakes. The top-tier Division A will see 12 of the best-performing teams compete for the national title, including reigning champions Hockey Association of Odisha and last year’s runners-up Hockey Haryana. The bottom two teams in this division will be relegated to Division B, while the top two teams from Division B will move up.
Division B features 10 teams, including Hockey Chandigarh and Delhi Hockey, all eyeing promotion to the top division. The bottom two teams in this group will face relegation to Division C. Meanwhile, Division C includes eight teams like Hockey Rajasthan and Hockey Gujarat, with the top two earning a coveted spot in Division B next year.
Division C and Division B action kicked off on the opening day, featuring matches such as Hockey Rajasthan vs. Tripura Hockey and Delhi Hockey vs. Hockey Kerala. Division A matches are scheduled to begin on April 8, with teams placed in four pools of three. The top two teams from each pool will advance to the quarterfinals on April 12, followed by the semifinals on April 13 and the final on April 15.
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey praised the updated format, stating, “The new format was a success in the senior women’s championship, and we look forward to an equally exciting contest this time. With promotion and relegation on the line, teams will give their all and deliver high-quality hockey.”
Echoing the sentiment, Secretary-General Bhola Nath Singh said, “This championship is key for scouting future talent for international competitions. Domestic tournaments have consistently showcased impressive hockey, and this format will push players to perform at their best. We wish all participants the very best.”
With a standard points system in place—three for a win, one for a draw, and none for a loss—every match carries weight, making this year’s national championship a fiercely competitive and talent-rich affair.
