Hockey India Responds to PR Sreejesh's Dismissal Claims

Hockey India Addresses Allegations from PR Sreejesh

Hockey India (HI) has reacted to the surprising claims made by PR Sreejesh regarding his dismissal as the head coach of the Indian junior hockey team, despite his successful tenure. The former goalkeeper alleged that he was let go to facilitate the hiring of a foreign coach, as suggested by the senior team's head coach, Chris Fulton. However, HI refuted these allegations, asserting that Sreejesh's contract was set to conclude in December 2025, and he was not terminated. They mentioned that he was offered a new position as the coach of the development team.

HI confirmed that a new coach has been appointed, with an announcement expected soon. In their statement, they clarified, "Hockey India would like to officially state that the coaching term for P.R. Sreejesh was officially concluded as per contract in December 2025. After this, as per protocol, the position was advertised, and applicants were shortlisted and finalized based on merit. A coach with distinguished qualifications has been selected as a result of this process and will be announced shortly." They emphasized that Sreejesh was not 'fired' but was instead offered a role that would enhance his coaching experience, which he declined.

HI also denied any bias towards foreign coaches, asserting that nurturing local coaching talent is a priority. They stated, "In no terms has it ever been conveyed to him that there has been any preference for a foreign coach by the chief coach. We are collectively working towards the vision of our government to build a pathway towards 2036, and a significant part of that process is to develop our Indian coaching talent." They highlighted their commitment to grassroots development and the training of homegrown coaches, noting that over 600 coaches have been certified through their programs.

PR Sreejesh's Response

Sreejesh took to social media platform X to express his concerns, questioning why Indian coaches are not trusted to lead the national hockey teams. He shared a lengthy post criticizing HI's decisions, stating, "It seems like my coaching career comes to an end after 1.5 years, during which we played 5 tournaments and secured 5 podium finishes, including a Junior World Cup bronze medal. I have heard about coaches getting fired after poor performances, but this is the first time I am experiencing being removed to make way for a foreign coach." He further mentioned a conversation with the Sports Minister, who encouraged him to take on a leadership role as the country prepares for the 2036 Olympics, yet noted that HI continues to favor foreign coaches over Indian talent.