Waveriders-Warriors clash to kick-off 2014 HIL

New Delhi, Jan 2 (IANS) Hockey India (HI) Thursday announced the schedule for the Hockey India League (HIL) which will start from Jan 25 at Mohali with the final scheduled for Feb 23 in Ranchi.

The tournament will be broadcast live on Star Sports. A total of 34 matches will be played in a span of 30 days in Mohali, Ranchi, New Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow and Bhubaneswar with the opening ceremony scheduled Jan 25 in Mohali.

The opening day will witness Jaypee Punjab Warriors clash against the 2013 runners-up Delhi Waveriders. Defending champions Ranchi Rhinos will be in action on Jan 26 when they take on Uttar Pradesh Wizards at home while the Warriors will play their second match against Mumbai Magicians at Mohali on the same day.

The replay of last year's final between the Rhinos and the Waveriders will take place Jan 27 in Ranchi. Jan 28 will see Kalinga Lancers play for the first time in the league against the Warriors on their home ground, Bhubhaneswar.

Mumbai hockey fans will witness the first match of the tourney Jan 29 when the Magicians take on Wizards.

The semifinals and final will be played in Ranchi Jan 22 and 23, respectively.