Controversy Erupts as Hockey India Sanctions Coach's Leave Before World Cup

Hockey India is under scrutiny after granting leave to women's team coach Sjoerd Marijne just before the FIH World Cup. Critics, including former officials and players, have voiced concerns about the implications of his absence during crucial preparations. As the team gears up for their first match against China, questions arise about the federation's decision-making and commitment to the team's success. This situation has ignited a debate about the responsibilities of coaches and the importance of their presence leading up to major tournaments. Read on to discover more about this unfolding controversy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 2, 2026, 09:06 IST

Hockey India's Decision Sparks Debate

Following the backlash over Hockey India's decision to change the team's traditional blue jersey to saffron, the federation has ignited further controversy by approving leave for the women's team head coach, Sjoerd Marijne, just ahead of the FIH World Cup.

Marijne has been on leave since July 12 and is slated to rejoin the team in the Netherlands on August 6. Consequently, he has missed the team's training camp in Bengaluru and their initial practice match against Germany on Friday.

Currently, the Indian team, captained by Salima Tete, is in Heilbronn, Germany, for practice matches. They will then head to the Netherlands for final preparations for the World Cup, which will take place from August 14 to 30, co-hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands. India is set to face China in their opening match on August 16.

Notably, both Hockey India and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) approved the coach's leave, even as he attends to personal matters with his family. In his absence, analytical coach Matias Vila has stepped in.

Despite multiple attempts to reach him, Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey could not be contacted for a statement. However, former FIH and Hockey India president Narinder Batra criticized the situation, labeling it as a lackadaisical approach by the federation.

Batra expressed his concerns, stating, "He should not have been reinstated after facing a defamation lawsuit for misconduct with the men's team. This reflects a non-serious attitude. How can he take leave now?"

He further remarked, "I've never witnessed a scenario where a coach is absent before such a crucial tournament. Dilip Tirkey, with over 400 caps, understands the significance of having the coach present. I'm uncertain about the secretary general, Bhola Nath Singh, and how this leave was sanctioned by the SAI."

Former captain and junior men's coach PR Sreejesh also raised questions regarding the timing of the leave, stating, "One cannot afford to take a break before a major tournament. The lead-up to a tournament is critical for working on strategies, penalty-corner routines, and shoot-outs. This responsibility cannot be solely left to the assistant coach."