FIH warns players not to play in Indian league

The International Hockey Federation has warned players against participating in a World Series of Hockey planned by an Indian hockey association no longer affiliated to the game’s world governing body.

The FIH said it has written to national associations about the issue and has posted a warning on its website.

The world body said the “FIH does not recognise the WSH,” adding that players participating in the league could be banned from important tournaments including the Olympic Games.

The Indian Hockey Federation lost its affiliation in 2008 as it could not unify the men’s and women’s bodies, but announced the launch of a franchise-based league last month.