In a multi-year deal, ESPN STAR Sports has been granted global telecast rights for the professional hockey league.
The FIH approved league will see national as well as international hockey stars showcase their prowess. The first edition of the league is expected to be played in the month of January next year.
The league will comprise at least six franchise hockey teams and will feature 33 matches to be played across the country.
All teams will play each other on a home and away basis (30 league matches) followed by the semifinals and the final.
Hockey India further announced that ESPN STAR Sports will have the global broadcast rights to telecast at least five international hockey test matches every year under Hockey India to be played in India for the next five years.
The number of matches that India will play against top international opposition could go up depending on the finalisation of the series schedule.
"We are delighted to have ESPN STAR Sports as our broadcast partners. Hockey India has a clear vision