Australia's Hockey One League is set to receive a significant injection of Indian flavor with the introduction of a team featuring a substantial number of Indian and Indian-origin players. This unprecedented move aims to strengthen ties between Australia and India, attract the diaspora, promote hockey, and potentially provide opportunities for Indian players.

The Melbourne Cobras will be the eighth team to join Hockey One, participating in both the men's and women's leagues, and will be the second team from the state of Victoria, after Hockey Club Melbourne. What sets the Cobras apart is their commitment to including Indian or Indian-origin players, with eight players in a squad of 25. The team is scheduled to launch in Punjab in October 2025, before being unveiled in Melbourne at the end of November.

Hockey Victoria is interested in bringing in top international players, emerging talents, and recently retired players. While securing the participation of high-profile players like Manpreet Singh and Harmanpreet Singh may be challenging due to their international and domestic commitments, discussions are ongoing. Hockey Victoria is optimistic about their participation. Emerging talents and recently retired players are also being considered.

Previously, Indian players have participated in the Hockey One League. Shilanand Lakra played for HC Melbourne last season, and Rupinder Pal Singh, a Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist, represented both Canberra Chill and HC Melbourne after his retirement.

Hockey Victoria is devising contracts to attract Indian players, including per-match fees and a 75% revenue share in player sponsorship. Player sponsorship is significant in Australia, and HC Melbourne had 60 companies sponsoring players last year. Players can have up to four sponsors and a share in merchandise. The base payment will vary based on a player's experience, achievements, and popularity.

The inclusion of Indian players is viewed as a way to provide game time for emerging players and allow them to develop their skills. India's chief coach, Craig Fulton, is supportive of the idea. Targeted discussions have taken place with several Indian players, who have expressed strong interest in participating in the franchise.

This initiative could benefit both Australian hockey and Indian players, creating a bridge between the two hockey-loving nations.