UP Rudras pull out of HIL, citing financial sustainability

A couple of days before the September 24 mini players auction, UP Rudras have pulled out of the Hockey India League (HIL), citing financial sustainability. The franchise finished fifth in the first season of a revamped HIL earlier this year.

While Hockey India has expressed optimism about finding a solution before the start of the season, the pull-out could leave the HIL in disarray, reducing it to a seven-team tournament.

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Owned by Yadu Sports, UP Rudras team director Cedric D’Souza said, “This was not an easy call.”

“We value what the league has brought to Indian hockey, but sustainability challenges made continuation untenable. Our responsibility now is to direct resources where they can have the greatest long-term impact, grassroots development,” he added.

UP Rudras have several top Indian as well as international players in their ranks, including India vice-captain Hardik Singh, recently retired forward Lalit Upadhyay, England’s Sam Ward, Tanguy Cosyns of Belgium, and Lars Balk of the Netherlands. They were coached by former India and the Netherlands trainer, Paul van Ass.

Adding perspective from the players, Hardik said, “Representing the Rudras in the Hockey India League has been an honour. Our fans have stood by us with unwavering loyalty. While this chapter closes, our dedication to hockey and to inspiring future athletes continues at the grassroots level.”

The Rudras underlined that their focus going forward will be on building strong foundations for hockey in India, investing in structured programs at the school and community level, scouting and training initiatives to identify promising players early, and creating development platforms that bridge the gap between local talent and national recognition.

Indian hockey legend, Lalit Upadhyay, and UP stalwart, noted, “The league has played an important role, despite it coming to an end for us, our focus on developing the sport in Uttar Pradesh will continue. By channeling efforts into grassroots initiatives, we remain fully invested in Indian hockey’s future.”