The selection trials for the inaugural Chhattisgarh Hockey League (CHL) 2026 began at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Hockey Stadium in Raipur. The trials were held at Pitch-1 of the stadium.
A total of 373 players registered for the trials. Of them, 223 players reported and took part on the opening day. Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao, who also handles the Sports and Youth Welfare portfolio, attended the event and interacted with the players.
Sao met the participants at the ground and watched the players during the trials. Speaking on the occasion, he highlighted the importance of hockey in the state.
“Hockey runs deep in Chhattisgarh, and the enthusia of the players at these trials is proof of it. Today I saw their passion on the field for myself. The Chhattisgarh Hockey League has been created to give young players like these a bigger stage, where they will share the field with national and international players.
Our government’s aim is that every sporting talent in Chhattisgarh gets the opportunity to rise to the state, national and international level. My best wishes to every player taking part in the trials.”
Six teams to be formed after selection process
The trials are being organised by the Department of Sports and Youth Welfare, Government of Chhattisgarh. They are being conducted under the rules and criteria laid down by Hockey Chhattisgarh.
The trials will continue on September 29 from 9am at the same venue. After the trials, the selected players’ list and the selection report will be submitted to the Directorate of Sports. The six teams will then be formed based on the selection process.
The inaugural CHL season will be played at the Raipur stadium. Six franchise-based teams will compete in the league. They are Rajdhani Royals, Chitrakote Challengers, Sanskardhani Strikers, Chakradhar Champions, Nyayadhani Knights and Mainpat Titans.
Each team will have 22 players. This will include 18 players from Chhattisgarh and four national or international players from outside the state.
The league aims to give local players a competitive platform. It will also provide them with opportunities to gain experience and target higher levels of the sport.
The CHL will be played under the tagline “Chalo Re Sangi, Hockey Khelbo”.
