Shetty open for talks with HI, IOA
Bangalore, Jan 4, DH News Service:
In an attempt to solve the tussle between Hockey India and the Indian Hockey Federation, IHF’s newly-elected president RK Shetty on Wednesday said he is open for talks to save the sport that is immersed in deep crisis.
“In its last hearing, the Supreme Court asked all the concerned parties — HI, IHF and Indian Olympic Association — to sit down, have talks and arrive at a consensus,” said Shetty on the sideliness of a press conference to announce the KSHA Super Division League championship. “Hockey India is scheduled to hold a meeting today, IOA is expected to meet tomorrow. Hopefully, they will realise court cases will only hinder the growth of hockey. The Supreme Court is expected to hear HI’s case again on January 7. I hope something good comes out it, if not, efforts from our side will resume to resolve the deadlock,” added Shetty.
Shetty’s current concern is IHF’s inability to pick the national squad despite getting the green signal from the Sports Ministry as the national body authorised to run the affairs of hockey.
The international hockey federation (FIH) recognises only HI as the national body, leaving IHF without the power to name teams for international meets.
Throwing light on World Series Hockey that has generated a lot of buzz, Shetty said it is one of the best things to happen for the game. “I’m completely confident it will rejuvenate hockey, not just in India but globally also. Nimbus and many other sponsors have come forward to pump in money. Cash apart, it will be run professionally and that is what is the need of the hour,” said Shetty.
Rubbishing any talks of forming a rebel league, Shetty said there are plenty of leagues taking place across the world and does not see a reason why FIH should disapprove it. “FIH president Leonardo Negre was quoted saying the federation can’t stop anyone from organising a league. Our aim is not to cause any problem. It’s just another league with a lot more budget, which will benefit a lot of people.”