HI mulls reshuffle in team management

Upset over Harendra Singh’s resignation saga during last month’s Guangzhou Asian Games, Hockey India (HI) is mulling a complete reshuffle in the team management when the officials of the national federation meet here on Saturday.

A top source in HI told PTI that the manner and circumstances under, which Harendra had resigned after India lost to Malaysia in the semifinals of Asian Games, has not gone down well with some members of the federation.

He also said that it would be not be a surprise if HI completely overhauls the team management of both the senior men’s as well as women’s team.

“HI secretary-general (Narinder Batra) at present is in Malaysia for a meeting of the Asian Hockey Federation. After his return he will be meeting other HI officials on December 11, where all the issue including that of coaches will be taken up,” the source said.

“It is certain that (Jose) Brasa won’t get an extension and Harendra’s chances are also slim after his resignation drama during the Asian Games. Some officials are very angry with Harendra for disclosing his resignation letter to the media. He has also irked them with his statement that he is ready to reconsider his resignation if given full authority of the team,” he said.

“During the meeting the officials will rethink about the whole set up, including a change in the entire support staff,” he added.