Batra junks run-in reports

Hockey India president Narinder Batra has rubbished reports of him being involved in any confrontation with Dutchman Paul van Ass.

Amidst speculations about the future of Paul van Ass as coach of the Indian men’s hockey team, Hockey India president Narinder Batra has rubbished reports of him being involved in any confrontation with the Dutchman.

Batra had reportedly had a face-off with van Ass after India’s victory over Malaysia during the recent Hockey World League semifinals in Belgium.

“I don’t know who is spreading these stories. I was asked by the organising committee to meet the Indian team. On the ground, I spoke to Paul and asked if it was OK for me to talk to the players in Hindi and he was fine. We have organised so many international events, I know the protocol,” Batra said on Friday.

“Paul is yet to return to India and submit his report. I expect him to be at the camp when it begins on 19th. Only after we go through the reports can we take a decision. We are not averse to stringent measures but I can say there is no information on anyone quitting,” Batra said.