In a significant blow to the Hockey India League (HIL), the UP Rudras franchise has announced its withdrawal from the competition after only one season. The team cited serious doubts regarding financial sustainability as the primary reason for its departure, making them the second men’s team to leave the league. This decision leaves the HIL with just seven teams.
The official announcement, made on Monday following communication with Hockey India, has ignited concerns not only about the league’s financial stability but also its long-term continuation. “We recognize the valuable contributions the league has made to Indian hockey, but the challenges to our sustainability have made continued participation unfeasible,” stated Cedric D’Souza, UP Rudras Team Director. He added, “Our immediate responsibility is to reallocate resources towards areas that can deliver the greatest long-term impact and support grassroots development.”
This abrupt exit, occurring merely two days before the scheduled players’ mini-auction for the HIL’s second season, has also thrown the future of the franchise’s players into uncertainty. However, Hockey India’s secretary-general, Bhola Nath Singh, emphasized that player welfare remains a top priority and assured that the federation would actively manage the situation to protect their interests.