Former India goalkeeper and two-time Olympic bronze medallist P. R. Sreejesh has strongly criticised the country’s hockey management after both the men’s and women’s teams failed to reach the semifinals of their respective World Cups.
Sreejesh, who retired following the Paris Olympics, questioned whether Indian hockey is focused merely on producing attractive performances or building teams capable of defeating the world’s best when it matters most.
The criticism came after another disappointing World Cup campaign for India’s senior teams.
The men’s side saw their hopes come to an end on Monday following a 5-3 defeat against Argentina. A day earlier, India’s women were also eliminated from semifinal contention after being held to a goalless draw by Australia.
Following the results, Sreejesh took to X to voice his frustration and called for those responsible for the teams’ performances to be held accountable.
“Don’t worry… the World Cup doesn’t matter,” he began.
The former goalkeeper then raised questions about the direction in which the national teams are being developed.
“But here’s the uncomfortable question: Are we building a team to PLAY good hockey, or a team capable of WINNING against the best in the world?” he asked.
Sreejesh continued his criticism by questioning who would take responsibility following the failure of both teams to make the last four.
“So who is going to ask the difficult questions? Who is going to demand accountability? And most importantly…does anyone actually care?” Sreejesh concluded.
His comments add to the scrutiny surrounding Indian hockey following the World Cup exits, particularly given his experience as one of the country’s most decorated former players.
It is also not the first time in the recent past that Sreejesh has publicly raised questions about the management and coaching structure in Indian hockey.
The former India international previously questioned whether Indian coaches were considered good enough after his tenure as coach of the junior men’s team was not extended.
Sreejesh had guided the junior men’s side to a bronze medal at last year’s Junior World Cup before his stint came to an end.
Having enjoyed considerable success during his playing career and subsequently moved into coaching, Sreejesh’s latest remarks place the focus firmly on accountability following India’s failure to challenge for medals at the ongoing World Cups.
