A new era in Indian hockey will be ushered in when the much-anticipated Hockey India League League (HIL) restarts with the opening clash between Delhi SG Pipers and Gonasika of Vizag here on Saturday.

The HIL is set to be revived in a new avatar after seven years with eight men’s teams in the fray. The icing of the cake is the introduction of the women’s league, comprising four teams, which will be played in Ranchi from January 12.