Adrian injured, Vikram to chip in as goalie

PUNE: The Indian men’s national hockey squad suffered a setback as two reserve players went down with injuries during practise at the Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex, Mhalunge-Balewadi.

Speaking to TOI, Lt Col BK Nayak, doctor of the Indian hockey team, said goalkeeper Adrian D’Souza and midfielder Vikas Pillay have sustained minor fractures to their left wrist and left finger respectively.

“Adrian was injured on September 10 but the goalkeeper continued playing and informed the medical staff only on September 14 when the pain increased. His hand is now in plaster and he has advised six weeks rest,” Nayak said. In a late evening development, goalkeeper P Sreejesh was asked to join the camp at Pune. Vikas got injured while rehearsing penalty corners. The Pune player was administered seven stitches and advised three-week rest. Vikas’ elder brother Vikram will now play a dual role during the Commonwealth Games. Apart from his regular position as midfilder, he will also act as a reserve goalkeeper.

On Friday, Vikram was spotted all padded up and fielding shots. Chief coach Jose Brasa had said two weeks ago, that only one goalkeeper should be selected instead of two to create a spot for an additional reserve player. National selectors Ajit Pal, Zafar Iqbal, Col. Balbir Singh and BP Govinda had selected the national squad after consulting the national coach.