Bhubaneswar: Anticipation and enthusiasm are reaching a fever pitch as international hockey makes a grand return to Odisha. The state is all set to host the FIH Pro League 2023-24 legs in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela. Scheduled to take place from 3 to 25 February at Kalinga Stadium and Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, the event promises thrilling matches featuring top teams.
With just one day left for the eagerly awaited FIH Pro League, the women’s teams from China, USA, Netherlands, and Australia have arrived in Bhubaneswar, undergoing their final preparations. Online and offline ticket sales have commenced, adding to the excitement as hockey enthusiasts eagerly await the chance to witness spectacular matches and cheer for their favorite teams.
Both Bhubaneswar and Rourkela, emerging as hockey hotspots in the state, are currently immersed in a hockey fever. The Sports and Youth Services Department is collaborating closely with various government departments and Hockey India to ensure a memorable experience for both teams and fans at the venues. Meticulous planning covers all aspects, including infrastructure, safety, transport, accommodation, hospitality, and the overall conduct of the event.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Vineel Krishna, Secretary of the Sports and Youth Services Department, expressed his pleasure, saying, “It is one year to the Hockey Men’s World Cup, and it gives me immense pleasure that once again we will have an international hockey tournament at both our venues, Kalinga Hockey Stadium, Bhubaneswar, and Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, Rourkela.”
Krishna added, “The Women’s team will not only be making their comeback to the Pro League but will also make their debut in Rourkela. Meanwhile, for the Men’s team, these matches will be crucial in their preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympics. I’m confident that they will give their best and enthral the passionate hockey fans of Odisha. I also extend my warm welcome to the visiting teams, their players, officials, and fans from across the globe. I’m sure they will have a memorable experience in Odisha.”
The mini-tournament will showcase both the Indian Women’s and Men’s Hockey Teams. The Women’s Hockey Team, led by Savita, is making a comeback to the FIH Pro League. They are scheduled to face the USA, Netherlands, China, and Australia at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium in Bhubaneswar from February 3 to 9, followed by their debut at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela from February 12 to 18.
The Men’s team, on the other hand, will square off against Netherlands, Spain, Australia, and Ireland in their home matches from February 10 to 16 in Bhubaneswar. They will then shift to Rourkela for their return fixtures, taking place between February 19 to 25.
Ticketing Details:
Tickets are available online at www.ticketgenie.in.
Offline tickets are on sale between 11.00 AM and 6.00 PM at Gate No. 9 of the Kalinga Hockey Stadium, Bhubaneswar.