Row over captaincy worries Gill

By Mail Today Correspondent in New Delhi

Says choice of selectors should be respected by everyone

SPORTS minister MS Gill is amused at the controversy being played out over the choice of Indian hockey captain for the World Cup beginning in the Capital later this month.

Speaking to MAIL TODAY on Wednesday, Gill recalled the 1968 Mexico Olympics when India decided to go in with two captains — Gurbax Singh and Prithipal Singh.

Needless to say, the consequences were disastrous.

“ I have been reading all the reports on the captaincy appointment issue and also how there has been voting on who should be the captain. My take is simple. When there is a selection committee, as in all other sports in India, it should decide on selection matters,” said Gill.

“ We have a knowledgeable selection committee which comprises well- known Olympians and the SAI observer. They are the best ones to judge in consultation with coach Jose Brasa,” said Gill.

Rajpal was named by the selectors as captain for the World Cup but speculation is rife that Brasa had recommended Prabhjot Singh for the job. The Spaniard had also pulled for four vice- captains — Rajpal, Deepak Thakur, Arjun Halappa and Adrian D’Souza.

However, neither of his recommendations was accepted by the selection panel.

Rajpal was the skipper for the Champions Challenge in Argentina and the committee was satisfied with his performance as captain.

It was learnt that most of the players at the training camp pulled for Prabhjot in an informal vote. However, the federation has refused to have a rethink in the matter and said the players and team management should focus on preparing for the World Cup.

Gill feels there was no need for Brasa to get involved in the captaincy stir. “ Rajpal Singh was the captain in Argentina and he has been persisted with.

That is fine,” said Gill.

“ The foreign coach was chosen to help the Indian hockey team out and ensure they do well. His ( Brasa’s) focus should be on training and bringing the team to the top. If at all there are any selection matters, he should refer it to the selection committee,” added Gill.

“ I feel the current scenario is only doing damage to the interest and unity of the team. I was present in Mexico when the Indian team suffered with two captains. We cannot afford to have this type of a situation again,” stressed Gill.