95 Indian players signed for HIL Mini Players auction

The Hockey India League's Mini Players auction will feature 95 Indians, including promising forwards such as Ramandeep Singh and Affan Yousuf, when it is conducted here on November 18.

Hockey India Secretary General and Hockey India League Chairman Dr. Narinder Batra said the quality of competition and success of the inaugural season of the League has generated interest among Indian players.

"We are confident that franchises will complete their teams with the best available Indian talent," he said.

Releasing the list of 95 Indian players who have signed up for the Mini Auction or Closed Bid, Batra said the list of players is a combination of young and experienced.

The list of Indians has some young talented players who have recently performed well at various tournaments.

Among them is forward Affan Yousuf, who was vice-captain of the Indian Junior Men's team that won gold medal in the third Sultan of Johar Cup last month.

Ramandeep, who scored his maiden goal in his debut match at the ninth Men's Asia Cup and six goals in the third Sultan of Johar Cup, has also signed for the players' auction.

Goalkeeper Harjot Singh and forward Mohammad Amir Khan are the other young talents who were part of the junior national team that won the third Sultan of Johar Cup.

Forward Nikkin Thimmaiah, who made his debut in the recently-concluded Asia Cup in Malaysia, and defender Gurjinder Singh are also among the players who have signed in for the auction.

The list of 95 Indians comprises of 10 goalkeepers, 16 defenders, 27 midfielders and 42 forwards.