New Delhi, Sept. 22 -- Already reeling from the pull out of two teams, the Hockey India League (HIL) received a fresh jolt on Monday as Yadu Sports-owned UP Rudras withdrew citing financial unsustainability just two days before the mini-auction here.

While the decision was made public on Monday, UP Rudras sent their communique to Hockey India (HI) on Sunday evening. Skippered by India midfielder Hardik Singh, the team finished fifth in the league last season. "This was not an easy call," said UP Rudras team director Cedric D'Souza in a statement. "We value what the league has brought to Indian hockey, but sustainability challenges made continuation untenable."

Earlier, men's franchise Team Gonasika and reigning women's champions Odisha ...