Kalmadi ‘cheques’ in
The wait was finally over for the Indian hockey team on Monday morning, when Indian Olympic Association chief Suresh Kalmadi distributed cheques to them at Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Balewadi. Around 35-40 players were the beneficiaries.
It was not only a relief for the players, but for the support staff too, including the coaches. IOA chief was accompanied by Hockey India (HI) advisor Anupam Ghulati.
“As this was promised, the cheques have come within a week. We remember the other promises too, but that will be fulfilled after the HI elections,” said Kalmadi.
Kalmadi also told Sandeep Singh that injured Baljit Singh’s cheque would be sent to him directly. “Baljit also played a few tournaments, so he deserves the money. He (Kalmadi) assured that Baljit and other players, who are not part of the camp, will get their cheques from HI,” Sandeep informed DNA.
When contacted, Baljit said the money will help him in some way. “I am happy that I got some money from Hockey India, this will help me foot my medical bills.”
Meanwhile, the coaches and the supporting staff were surprised, when they also received the cheques. “It is a very nice gesture from the IOA chief. I was surprised when he handed over the cheques to us,” said coach Harinder Singh.