"Proud, but aware of the responsibility" - Udita Duhan opens up on becoming the costliest buy at the historic HIL women's player auction [Exclusive]

For years to come, Udita Duhan's name will be etched in the annals of Indian hockey folklore. The star defender left everyone in awe when she became the costliest buy at the historic Hockey India League 2024 (HIL) women's player auction in October.

The moment her name came up during the proceedings in Delhi, Duhan stirred a huge bidding war. The Haryana-born player was eventually snapped by the Shrachi Rahr Bengal Tigers for a mightly paycheck of Rs 32 lakh. For Udita, though it was a proud feeling, it also brought with it great ‘responsibility’.

Udita Duhan was in a conversation with Sportskeeda on the sidelines of the 14th Hockey India Senior Women Inter-department National Championship 2024.

“To see yourself as the most expensive pick at such a historic event is definitely a proud feeling for any player. All that handwork being recognized makes me feel grateful. But, I also realize the responsibility it brings. The Tigers have shown faith in me and I want to give it more than my 100% in living up to that trust,” said Udita.

The 26-year-old further shared what went through her mind watching the auction unfold. Duhan shared that though she was nervous, the entire process was a very exciting spectacle.

“I had just finished training with my team and we were watching the auction together. Yes, there definitely were some nerves but to see it all unfold was very exciting too. Honestly, I expected myself to go for 15-20 lakhs but the final amount came as a positive surprise to me too. It’s such a great feeling to be a part of history,” she added.

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“Indian and foreign players will now share a common dressing room” - Udita Duhan expresses optimism ahead of inaugural Women’s HIL

The decision to have both the men’s and women’s HIL run simultaneously has been hailed by everyone. Both players and the fans of the sport feel it is a great time for women’s hockey to grow leaps and bounds from here onwards.

Udita Duhan is one among the many who are optimistic of the potential that the women’s HIL holds. She feels happy that the Indian and foreign players can for once play together on the same team.

“It’s such exciting times that Indian and foreign players will now share a common dressing room. There is so much to learn for everyone involved. It’s like a fresh start which brings with it a plethora of new opportunities. I just cannot wait,” concluded Udita.

Udita Duhan should be proud of how far she has come and will be wanting to prove her worth through her performances. Given her immense ability and talent, the ace Indian star is expected to continue to shine at the HIL.