Hockey India League Governing Council takes over UP Rudras after franchise withdrawal
Players including Hardik Singh and Lalit Upadhyay remain active
Move ensures participation and competitive balance in Hero Hockey India League 2026
The Hockey India League (HIL) Governing Council has taken over operations of the UP Rudras franchise, which withdrew from the 2026 season citing financial challenges, to ensure that the players' participation in the event is not affected.
The Rudras had withdrawn from the league earlier this week.
The Governing Council will manage and run the new team's affairs until a new franchise owner comes forward.
"The Council remains open to discussions with interested parties who may wish to acquire the new franchise," the organisers said in statement on Wednesday.
Indian vice-captain Hardik Singh and Uttar Pradesh stalwart Lalit Upadhyay are among the players associated with the team.
"This step has been taken to ensure that UP Rudras players participate in Hero HIL 2026 and to maintain the competitive balance of the league," the statement read.
The HIL, which was suspended in 2017 due to financial issues and non-cooperation from team owners, had returned earlier this year after being dormant for seven years.
