Confusion reigns over hockey in UP

Hockey officials in Uttar Pradesh are sailing in two boats, creating confusion for players as well as fans.

Paying no heed to Hockey India’s warning to its affiliated units to not to participate in events being organised by the rival Indian Hockey Federation (IHF), officials of UP Hockey (UPH) have decided to field a team in the IHF-backed 63rd Senior National Hockey Championship, starting in Bhopal on Sunday.

The UPH officials claim that as IHF has been revived after the Delhi High Court decision, its affiliated unit for the state, UP Hockey Association, too has come back into existence and they are supporting Gill and Co.

“The situation is very confusing. Though International Hockey Federation (FIH) recognises Hockey India, the IHF too exists and we are unsure of our position right now,” said a UPHA spokesman. The association has announced a 20-member team for the Bhopal tourney, where UP begin their campaign on July 6.