Controversy Erupts Over PR Sreejesh's Coaching Termination
Former Indian goalkeeper and junior men's team coach PR Sreejesh expressed frustration over his dismissal after 17 months, questioning Hockey India's preference for foreign coaches. Despite his success and multiple medals, his contract was not renewed. Hockey India claims protocol was followed, offering Sreejesh a development role, which he declined.
PR Sreejesh, a former Indian goalkeeper and coach for the junior men's team, recently vented his frustrations online regarding his removal from the coaching position after just 17 months. Sreejesh successfully led his team to five medals, including a Junior World Cup bronze, before his tenure ended, prompting a public disagreement with Hockey India over its preference for foreign coaches.
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey responded, stating that Sreejesh's contract was concluded as planned in December 2025, and no dismissal occurred. Instead, they extended an opportunity for Sreejesh to coach the development team, which he declined. Tirkey emphasized that a qualified coach has been selected through proper procedures and will be announced soon.
Sreejesh, however, remains critical, citing past encouragement to lead in Indian hockey's future while lamenting Hockey India's tendency to favor foreign coaches over homegrown talent. Despite this dispute, Hockey India maintains its commitment to nurturing domestic coaching talent, having already certified over 600 homegrown coaches.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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