Tirkey bids adieu to international hockey
New Delhi , May 2: Former Indian skipper and stalwart Dilip Tirkey on Sunday announced his retirement from the international hockey, saying fitness issues have hampered his progress in the last one year.
“I took the decision to retire from international hockey because I have been suffering from fitness related problems for quite a long time. My legs are not fit and I don’t think it is possible for me to return to the national squad in near future,” Tirkey said on the day.
Tirkey, who made his international debut in 1995 against England in the Indira Gandhi Gold Cup, did not play the recent World Cup held here earlier this year.
The three-time Olympian, Tirkey also said he was not satisfied with his international career.
“I could not fulfil my dream of clinching the World Cup title and Olympic medals. I did not get the chance to play in World Cup and would not be able to play in the Commonwealth Games at home. This grudge will remain throughout my life,” he said.
Tirkey, however, said he will remain in touch with the game and will hone young talent. “I cannot stay away from hockey. I will open an academy in Orissa where I will coach young players,” the 32-year-old said. Tirkey hasn’t played for India since the Asia Cup last year.
Age Correspondent