Sony Sports Network (SSN) has signed an exclusive three-year deal to broadcast the Hockey India League (HIL), ensuring the franchise-based hockey tournament reaches millions of fans across India and beyond. The highly anticipated 2024-25 season kicks off on December 28, with matches set to be played in Rourkela and Ranchi.

Fans can catch all the live action on Sony Sports Ten 1 (English), Sony Sports Ten 3 (Hindi), and Sony Sports Ten 4 (Tamil and Telugu) channels, available in both Standard Definition (SD) and High Definition (HD).

Sony Sports Network’s multi-channel, multi-language approach aims to make the league accessible to a diverse audience. By offering commentary in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, SSN ensures an immersive viewing experience that resonates with fans from all corners of India. The inclusion of Tamil and Telugu commentary marks a significant effort to connect with hockey enthusiasts in southern regions, further broadening the sport’s reach.

Rajesh Kaul, Chief Revenue Officer – Distribution and International Business and Head – Sports Business, Sony Pictures Networks India, shared his excitement, “Hockey has gained significant popularity in India, bolstered by the Indian team’s success in consecutive Olympics. At Sony Sports Network, we are committed to delivering a diverse sports portfolio, and adding one of the world’s premier franchise-based hockey leagues to our offerings is a proud moment. This partnership will bring fans closer to the game and establish SSN as the ‘Home of Hockey.’”

Dr. Dilip Tirkey, Chairperson of the HIL Governing Committee, emphasized the collaboration’s potential, “We are thrilled to partner with Sony Sports Network. Their expansive coverage across multiple channels and languages ensures that hockey fans from every region can experience the excitement. This season promises to be bigger, better, and bolder, and Sony’s telecast capabilities will elevate Indian hockey to new heights.”

Bhola Nath Singh, HIL Governing Committee Member, echoed the sentiment, “Our mission is to promote hockey to a wider audience, and this partnership with Sony Sports Network allows us to achieve that goal. The multilingual telecast plan makes the sport more accessible, enhancing fan engagement and setting new benchmarks for viewership.”

The tournament will feature top Indian and international players across both the men’s and women’s leagues. With Sony Sports Network’s expansive reach and focus on regional inclusivity, the HIL 2024-25 is poised to become one of the most widely viewed hockey events in the country.