ShubhGrow Hisar Heroes Retain Ashu Malik for KCL Season 2

ShubhGrow Hisar Heroes have retained star raider Ashu Malik for Season 2 of the Kabaddi Champions League (KCL), keeping one of the league’s most productive attackers at the heart of their squad. The decision is a clear statement of intent from the franchise as it prepares for a larger, more competitive season.

A Raider Who Carried the Attack

Ashu Malik was central to Hisar Heroes throughout Season 1. Across eight matches, he attempted 164 raids, the second-highest raiding workload in the league, and converted 71 of them successfully. His 91 raid points ranked among the top three in the tournament, supported by three Super Raids, four Super 10 performances, 61 touch points, and 30 bonus points, one of the highest bonus-point returns of the season. His raid strike rate of 55.5 percent, sustained over such a heavy workload, showed a raider who could carry an attack through long matches rather than rely on a few big moments.

A Proven Performer on the National Stage

Ashu’s value to the franchise was also recognised beyond KCL. He was part of India’s squad at the Asian Games 2026, where India’s men beat Iran 40-34 to win gold, with KCL Chairman Balwan Singh Ji serving as head coach. After his selection, Ashu described wearing the India jersey as an emotion beyond words and thanked those who supported his journey. Retaining a player of that profile gives ShubhGrow Hisar Heroes a raider with fresh confidence and valuable big-match experience.

Backing from the Top

The retention fits the long-term vision of the franchise’s owner, Rajesh Rathee, founder of ShubhGrow Capital, who has described the team as a multi-season project built on developing players and creating role models for young athletes across Haryana. Keeping Ashu Malik gives the franchise a ready-made example of what that vision looks like in practice, a Haryana raider who has progressed from KCL to the national squad.

Ready for a Bigger Season

Ashu will now work under new head coach Vinod Kumar, as the Heroes look to build on their debut campaign. Season 2 will be tougher, with ten franchises competing after the addition of Jhajjar Jaguars and Kurukshetra Knights alongside established sides including Rohtak Royals, Bhiwani Bulls, Karnal Kings, Gurugram Gurus, Sonipat Stars, Panipat Panthers, and Faridabad Fighters. With a proven raider secured, the Heroes can approach the auction with a strong foundation.

What It Means for Hisar Heroes Fans

For supporters, the news is a welcome start to the Season 2 build-up. Ashu Malik’s aggressive, high-volume raiding gave Hisar Heroes a fearless identity in Season 1, and fans can look forward to seeing him carry that into the new campaign.

Looking Ahead

As KCL Season 2 preparations continue, fans can follow all announcements through the official KCL Blogs section. Stay tuned to the KCL website for further updates.