Nobbs’ men geared up for Dutch challenge

A good performance in the London Olympics is not only about the redemption of India’s national sport, but will also decide the fate of the players of the men’s hockey squad. Saurabh Duggal reports.

A good performance in the London Olympics is not only about the redemption of India’s national sport, but will also decide the fate of the players of the men’s hockey squad.

After the team qualified for the Games, Hockey India (HI) decided to introduce a grading system for senior players, which would bring them financial benefits. Though the federation has introduced the system for juniors, where 33 of them would get a monthly stipend of Rs 10,000 each, for seniors they are yet to come up with a final draft.

Not disclosed

The federation has signed 28 seniors for the hockey league scheduled to start soon, but there too they have not given any signing amount and have not disclosed the money the players would get.

“HI has taken our views, but they have not taken a final call on the gradation system for seniors. We have also not received any signing amount for the proposed league,” said a player on condition of anonymity. “Sources tell us that HI is waiting for our Olympics results. After that, they will reveal their cards,” he added.

“It’s better to remain quiet at the moment as this is not the time to discuss the issue. Here, we only want to concentrate on the matches,” said another player.

The Indians are optimistic about a good showing at the Games. Their campaign will kick off on Monday against Holland. “We want to give a good display. We are eager to show that Indian hockey’s connect with London is not symbolic,” said skipper Bharat Chetri.

“We had a good outing before the Olympics and everyone is practicing as per the schedule prepared by the coach. We are hoping all of us click as a unit tomorrow and start our campaign with a win,” said vice-captain Sardar Singh.