A new page unfolds in the annals of Asian hockey on September 3. The first men's Champions Trophy at Ordos signals the birth of an era dedicated to enhance the quality and content of the sport in the continent.
On the launch pad for over five years, the concept of facilitating a top-notch event on the lines of the FIH Champions Trophy became a reality last year when South Korea hosted the women's version featuring four teams.
But it was the men's tournament that drew more debate. India was one of the early contenders to host. The developments here in the last few years came in the way.
Nothing much has changed. The turbulence in the administration continues. If anything it, has multiplied.
Governance is ham-handed as evidenced by the dithering in dealing with the two senior players and their “indiscipline.”
The two year ban on Sardar Singh and Sandeep Singh for their decision to opt out of the Champions Trophy is symptomatic of the mismanagement prompting frequent crisis situations.
Unpleasant task
How unpleasant the task will be for the new coach Michael Nobbs in his first assignment needs no elaboration. Even assuming that he is aware of the ceaseless turmoil the crisis could have been done away with deft handling.
It is tempting to equate the ban related to IHF inspired World Series of Hockey. Add this to the omission of Adrian D' Souza, and the drama of re-admission into the camp of those who participated in the launch of the WSH.
Distasteful as the whole episode was, its impact on the psyche of the selected players to perform at Ordos cannot be wished away.
Weak outfit
Rajpal Singh's optimism before departure was somewhat surreal. His justification of the ban was of out place. He need not have dwelt on the subject. With several senior players in the list of injured Rajpal leads a very weak outfit against formidable opponents like Korea, Pakistan, Malaysia and China.
The trump card is Rupinder Pal Singh. He fills the bill for Sandeep in hitting penalty corners. There is none to match Sardar's versatility.
Michael Nobbs reckons that Walmiki will be a success story. The weight of his assessment may have adequate back-up. Yet, there is a disturbing feeling that India has failed to field the strongest outfit to give the Aussie coach a tough test to his ingenuity.
A podium finish at Ordos will be a satisfactory result.
