Top officials hired for smooth conduct of Hockey India League

Josh Burt and Colin French have been named Technical Delegate and Umpire Manager respectively for the much-anticipated 2024-2025 edition of Hockey India League (HIL).

Burt has been officiating at international tournaments since 2011, and has been part of the Technical Delegate for prestigious events such as Men's Junior World Cup in 2013, Youth Olympic Games 2014, Hockey World League Semi-Final in 2015 and 2017, FIH Champions Trophy 2012 and 2018 respectively. He is also a veteran of three Olympic Games having officiated in Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024.

Speaking about his appointment, Josh said, “It fills me with immense pride knowing that Hockey India and the franchises have placed their trust in me to ensure the success of this remarkable event.

“As the leader of the officiating team, my pledge to you all is to ensure that every match is officiated with utmost precision and accuracy. I understand the significance of fair play and the impact it has on the overall experience for both the players and fans alike,” he added.

French, on the other hand, began his international umpiring career in 2013 with the Oceania Cup. He has since officiated at the Trans-Tasman Trophy, Youth Olympic Games, FIH Hockey Pro League, Commonwealth Games 2018 and 2022. His career spanning over a decade includes officiating at the prestigious Men's Hockey World Cup in 2023.

Speaking about his appointment, Colin said, “This will be an amazing hockey event hosted in majestic India, involving some of the finest hockey players, coaches, and officials within India and from around the world. I feel privileged and look forward to working alongside Hockey India to help deliver this amazing hockey league event. I can’t wait!”

Commenting on appointing the officials, Dr Dilip Tirkey, Hockey India League Chairperson, said, "We are delighted to appoint Josh Burt as technical official and Colin French as the umpire manager for the Hockey India League. Both bring immense experience and under their expertise, we look forward to smooth conduct of matches upholding the sportsmanship and spirit of the game."

The Men's HIL begins on December 28 in Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium in Rourkela while the women's HIL will begin on January 12 in Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium.

Tags : Hockey India League, Josh Burt, Colin French, Dilip Tirkey, Rourkela, Birsa Munda