Excitement amongst fans mounts as international hockey is set to return to Odisha. The State, which has emerged as a global hub of hockey, is gearing up to host the FIH Pro League 2023-24 Bhubaneswar and Rourkela legs, scheduled to take place at Kalinga Stadium and Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium between February 3-25.
With just two days to go for the much-awaited FIH Pro League, the women’s team of China, USA, Netherlands and Australia have arrived in Bhubaneswar and are undergoing their final preparations.
Sales of both online and offline tickets have also commenced and hockey fans are eagerly waiting to witness some great game of hockey and cheer for their favourite teams. Both Bhubaneswar and Rourkela which have emerged as hockey hubs of the State are engulfed in hockey fever. Effort is underway to ensure a memorable experience for teams and fans at both the venues. All aspects including infrastructure, safety, transport, accommodation, hospitality and the conduct of the event have been meticulously planned.
The mini-tournament will feature both the Indian women’s and men’s hockey teams. The women’s hockey team led by Savita, will be making their comeback to the FIH Pro League. They will take on the USA, Netherlands, China and Australia at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium in Bhubaneswar between February 3 to 9 followed by their debut at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela between February 12-18.
The men’s team, on the other hand, will face 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 19-25.