IHF sees the light with 20/20 vision

The deal, signed between the IHF and ESPN today, will be for 10 years and sees Rs 71 lakh offered annually in prize money. That’s a lot of money, more than even what’s available in the Dutch and German leagues, considered to be the best in hockey.

In fact, players in the European leagues are paid by their clubs for representing them — the NHL title does not carry prize money.

It’s not yet known where the money will come from but IHF officials appeared confident corporate sponsorship would be available.

Indian hockey has long suffered from lack of proper exposure. The Indian national team rarely plays at home and top tournaments aren’t packaged well on TV. The live telecast promises to redress that factor, and what is sure to add to the game’s appeal are the innovations the IHF seeks to introduce.

Some features:
* Teams will have unique names and identities

* All matches will be played under floodlights

* Each match will be divided into four quarters of 17 minutes 30 seconds each

* There will be timeouts during the match to attract TV advertisers

* Matches will be held only on Fridays and Saturday

The aannouncement was welcomed here by International Hockey Federation (FIH) president Els van Brenda Vriesman. ‘‘It will give the right boost to Indian hockey’’, she told The Indian Express. ‘‘The idea is in the right direction and we were waiting for India to come up with a league. It will be an perfect opportunity for hockey players in India to grow up in a professional enviornment.’’

However she said a proposal to allow five foreign players in each team would deny opportunities to upcoming talent in India. ‘‘Five players — that is almost half the team. It could discourage Indian players who may not be that good as those hired from abroad. There is a need for a balance’’, the FIH president said.