New Delhi: Top Indian forwards Shivendra Singh, Tushar Khandekar and Yuvraj Walmiki, besides 25 others, signed up for the inaugural cash-rich professional league of Hockey India (HI) that starts next year.

Shivendra was the first to sign the contract followed by Tushar and Yuvraj for the ambitious professional league that will hit-in during January-February next year with six city-based teams to start with. The 30-day tournament will start from first or second week of January.

Each franchise will have a budget of Rs.3 crore to form a 24-member squad, comprising 10 overseas and 14 domestic players who will be bought in auction.

HI has created a pool of 96 domestic players, who will be taking part in the league. HI's league will also enjoy the approval of the International Hockey Federation (FIH). (IANS)