By Ira Deshpande
The Uttar Pradesh Rudras have withdrawn from the Hockey India League (HIL) 2025, citing financial concerns. The decision was communicated to Hockey India on Sunday evening, just days before the mini players’ auction scheduled for September 24.
Owned by Yadu Sports Pvt. Ltd., the Rudras had a strong lineup in the inaugural season, featuring players like India vice-captain Hardik Singh, Lalit Upadhyay, and international stars such as Sam Ward, Tanguy Cosyns, and Lars Balk. They were coached by Paul van Ass, a former trainer for India and the Netherlands
The team’s withdrawal leaves the men’s tournament with seven teams unless a replacement or new owner is found for the UP franchise. Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh expressed optimism that a solution would be found before the season’s start, stating, “We received an email from the team owners on Sunday evening. We will manage the situation; the league will go on”
Sources indicate that the Rudras’ management decided to pull out due to a lack of clarity from Hockey India regarding the league’s financial projections. In the first season, teams spent approximately Rs 14 crore each, covering a Rs 7 crore franchise fee, a Rs 4 crore salary purse, and operational costs. The league’s exclusive venue in Rourkela limited opportunities for ticketing revenue and sponsorships, leading to concerns about the league’s financial sustainability.
The Rudras are the third team to withdraw after just one season. Vizag-based Team Gonasika and the Odisha Warriors have also pulled out, citing financial issues. The operations of Gonasika and Odisha have been absorbed by the new team, Ranchi Royal Tuskers, which will debut in the upcoming season.