Indian field hockey looks set for a new confrontation with FIH after the launch of a franchise-based league to be organised by a federation not recognised by the world governing body. Several top Indian players, including star penalty-corner specialist Sandeep Singh, have signed up for the $1 million World Series Hockey, to be organised by the Indian Hockey Federation jointly with Nimbus Sport from next year.
The IHF has not been recognised by the FIH since 2008, when it failed to form a combined body for men and women as per requirements. However, it is the body recognised by the Indian government, although FIH-affiliated Hockey India has been selecting national teams amid court battles.