Veteran Indian drag-flicker Rupinder Pal Singh is cheering the Hockey India League’s (HIL) latest move. The league’s governing council stepped in to take over the UP Rudras franchise, and Rupinder calls it a smart play to keep things rolling smoothly.
UP Rudras pulled out earlier due to money troubles, but the council jumped in to handle the team until a new owner shows up. This ensures the squad can join the HIL 2026 action and keeps the league’s competition fierce.
“It’s a positive sign,” Rupinder told . “No team gets dropped, and players still get to team up with top international stars. The key is the league keeps going. Fix these hiccups, and it’ll only get bigger each year.”
Rupinder knows the ropes—he captained Shrachi Bengal Tigers to victory last season and just got picked up by SG Pipers for Rs 12 lakh in the auction. He stressed how crucial financial backing is for rising stars in hockey.
“Money support changes everything for a player,” he said. “When your family’s secure and stress-free, you play better on the field. It fires you up to stay laser-focused on the game. Even with good earnings, your real job is to double down on performance during every minute on the pitch.”
Meanwhile, excitement is buzzing around young goalkeeper Vivek Lakra. The 20-something talent from a humble background fetched a whopping Rs 23 lakh from Shrachi Bengal Tigers—way above his Rs 2 lakh base price in the mini auction.
“I watched the bids nervously and never dreamed it’d go that high,” Vivek shared. “When it did, I was shocked but thrilled. Now, I just want to give my all and soak up tips from the experienced foreign players whenever I can.”
His journey hits home for many. “My family was over the moon after the auction,” he added. “We come from simple roots—I started at the Panposh Sports Hostel without my own kit, borrowing from seniors. This feels huge, but it’s just the beginning. My goal? Shine in the league, grab every learning chance, and one day represent India at the Olympics.”
Over in the women’s auction, Monika made a stunning comeback. After going unsold last season and losing her spot in the national core group, she became the priciest Indian woman player, snapped up by Shrachi Bengal Tigers for Rs 15 lakh.
“Last year was tough and emotional,” Monika reflected. “But the Hero Hockey India League is a massive stage for everyone. With so much talent around, strong performances here get you noticed for national camps. It’s perfect for young guns, and even us veterans have to earn our keep. Teaming with overseas pros pushes us all higher—that’s why this league matters so much.”
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