Delhi Wizards joined Karnataka Lions, Chennai Cheetahs and Pune Strykers as the latest team to take part in the World Series Hockey tournament starting next month in various venues in the country. Wizcraft International, India`s well-known Communication and Entertainment company has acquired the Delhi franchise and the team will be captained by ace Argentine striker Lucas Vila with Dutchman Roelant Oltmans as coach.

Confirming their decision to join World Series Hockey, Sabbas Joseph, Director Wizcraft International, said, "We have always been associated with marquee sports events like the ICC World Cup 2011, Indian Premier League and the Commonwealth Games.” "We see tremendous opportunity in sports in terms of a business and more importantly in building a loyal fan base. This is an important step that will further expand the canvas for Wizcraft and help build a strong following for our national game."

Yannick Colaco, COO Nimbus Sport, one of the sponsors of WSH, said, "We are delighted to welcome one of India`s biggest entertainment companies - Wizcraft International to the WSH family. We see tremendous opportunity in marrying sports and entertainment and with the extensive global experience that Wizcraft possess; they make a fantastic partner for WSH."

The WSH will be held from December 17 to January 22 and will involve 200 leading players -- Indian and international -- who will showcase their talent in 61 matches. It will be a multi-city franchise-based league of eight teams with players being allocated to the teams based on the internationally accepted and practiced `draft` system.