Hockey Coach Craig Fulton Strongly Opposed Manpreet Singh's Exclusion from Core Probables
In a dramatic development within Indian hockey, chief coach Craig Fulton vehemently opposed the exclusion of veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh from India's core hockey probables on disciplinary grounds, even offering to resign from his position before being persuaded by Hockey India officials to continue, according to sources quoted by news agency PTI.
Fulton Viewed Decision as "External Interference"
The controversy erupted when Hockey India decided to drop Manpreet Singh from the February 1–7 camp for 33 core probables in Rourkela. Fulton reportedly viewed this decision as "external interference" in team selection matters, expressing strong disagreement with the move that left the two-time Olympic bronze medallist out of the core probables for the first time in 15 years.
The exclusion followed revelations that Manpreet had abused a recreational drug during India's tour of South Africa in December last year, prompting disciplinary action from the hockey governing body.
Coach's Strong Opposition and Resignation Threat
During the meeting to finalize the list of probables, Fulton was reportedly "disturbed" when Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey, secretary general Bhola Nath Singh, and chief selector RP Singh jointly conveyed that Manpreet should be omitted from the squad.
Fulton argued passionately for Manpreet's inclusion, emphasizing his role as a mentor to younger players and highlighting his exceptional fitness levels. According to sources, the coach pointed out that Manpreet was among the top four fittest players within the core group, making a strong case for his retention despite the disciplinary concerns.
An angry Fulton offered to step down a day after the Chennai leg of the recently concluded Hockey India League, demonstrating the depth of his disagreement with the decision. However, after repeated persuasion from Tirkey and other officials, he eventually agreed to go along with the official stand that the senior midfielder was being "rested" rather than dropped for disciplinary reasons.
Fulton's Strategic Vision and Manpreet's Importance
Fulton's coaching philosophy, known as the 'Defend to Win' approach, places significant importance on structure and experience within the team. The chief coach has frequently spoken about Manpreet's fitness and form during the Hockey India League, viewing him as a crucial component of India's plans for upcoming tournaments.
The chief coach wants Manpreet to remain part of the team's strategy at least until this year's Asian Games and the World Cup, believing that the veteran midfielder's experience in pressure situations would prove invaluable in both competitions. The World Cup is scheduled for August, followed by the Asian Games in September.
Official Statements and Additional Exclusions
Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh maintained the official position, stating, "Let people say whatever they want but the fact is that Manpreet sought rest and had conveyed it to HI." This statement contrasts with the disciplinary grounds cited for the exclusion.
In addition to Manpreet Singh, Hockey India's Thursday announcement of probables also excluded forward Dilpreet Singh and goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak due to disciplinary reasons. The official statement did not specify the nature of the alleged violations by any of the players.
Manpreet's Recent Performance and Milestone
Manpreet Singh had recently co-captained Ranchi Royals to the Hockey India League final, delivering strong performances throughout the tournament. The veteran midfielder is also just one match away from equalling Dilip Tirkey's record of 412 appearances as India's most capped hockey player, adding significance to his exclusion from the core probables.
The India leg of the FIH Pro League will be held in Rourkela from February 10 to 15, with India opening their campaign against Argentina on February 11. The Pro League season begins next month in Rourkela, making team selection decisions particularly crucial at this juncture.
