NEW DELHI: Ever since the IOA handed over Indian hockey’s charge to an ad-hoc committee, people have been expecting overnight changes, but newly-appointed selection committee Chairman Ajit Pal Singh said the process will take time.

PTI reports, “It has been only three months since we have taken the charge, one should not expect overnight changes. It’s a lengthy and time taking process.” Ajit Pal said.
“We have to form many committees and then coach, trainer, physio and other support staff has to be appointed. After that we will hold a meeting with all concerned persons and then only I will be able to tell you whether Indian hockey is going in right direction or not. Let us first draw the roadmap,” added the World Cup winning captain.

He also said that the ad-hoc committee in charge of the game was open to suggestions from all quarters.

“We are open for suggestions. We will take opinion from former players, experts and media as well.”

In an unexpected move the ad-hoc committee has replaced Aslam Sher Khan as the Chairman of the selection panel with Ajit Pal. However, the newly-appointed selection committee chief does not want to read much between the lines.

“I was one of the members of the selection panel. Aslam will continue as a member. There is nothing like ego clashes. We have to work together to bring back the old glory of Indian hockey.”

Asked about his priority, the former centre-half said the first and foremost need is to prepare an annual calender and training programme for the players.

“We don’t have a systematic training programme for our senior and junior players. We will chart out a national and international calender. A pool of upcoming players has to be created.” opined the veteran.

“My priority would be to bring transperency in day-to-day functioning. So there will be no scope for complaints,” he said.

Although, the selectors are emphasing on youth, the selection committee Chairman reiterated that the doors of the national team are not closed for old players like Dilip Tirkey, Gagan Ajit Singh or Arjun Halappa.

“Now all selections will be purely performance based. Whoever performs well, will get a chance. Doors are not closed for anyone. There is no criteria of old and new,” said Ajit Pal.

India’s failure to qualify for Olympics after 80 years hurts him no end, but he is optimistic about the team’s chances in 2012 London edition of the Games.

“We could not qualify for the Olympics for the first time in 80 years. It hurts me but it is a harsh fact and you can not undo it. Let us forget the past and start afresh.

“I am sure that we will not only qualify for the London Olympics but will be a strong medal contender as well.” he said.