Chandigarh, February 12
India’s preparations for the all-important Olympic hockey qualifiers have received a jolt as the team’s top forward player Rajpal Singh has decided not to play in the tournament to be held at Santiago (Chile) from March 1.
Talking to The Tribune from Perth (Australia), where the hockey team has been practising with club teams, the Chandigarh-based forward said, “Yes, I have taken the decision to skip the Olympic qualifiers due to some reasons which I will disclose later.”
On being probed, the specialist right-winger hinted that there were some differences with chief coach Joaquim Carvalho. “Despite my superb performance in the Asia Cup and the recent Test series against Belgium, I am being given the impression that I need to improve my game to excel in major tournaments,” said Rajpal.
Rajpal, who led the Chandigarh team in all the four editions of the Premier Hockey League, had performed superbly during the five-match India-Belgium series, which concluded last month at Chennai. He netted three goals in four matches besides being adjudged man of the match in a match.
The forward also played pivotal role in Asia Cup win with his two goals in final against South Korea last year. Apart from that, Rajpal has represented the country in several international tournaments.
When asked whether he has informed IHF about his decision, Rajpal said, “No, I will inform them tomorrow. However, I have apprised my family of my decision and I have their full support.”
For the qualifier, the IHF has selected as many as 24 probables and Rajpal was the only specialist right-winger, the team has.
In the qualifier, India will kick off their campaign against Russia on March 1. Great Britain, Mexico, Chile and Austria are the other teams in the pool.
