WSH isn’t for youngsters: Philips

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The World Series Hockey has sparked a raging debate in hockey circles, with less than 20 days to go for the start of the money-rich league.

For those associated with the WSH, the franchisee-based tournament is a great opportunity for Indian youngsters to play with star players.

“The money the players would make in the process is certainly a bonus,” says V. Baskaran, coach of the Bhopal franchisee. “Brent Livermore and Viren Rasquinha have confirmed their participation in the WSH. I know they are past their prime. But there is no doubt that younger players can a lot by interacting with them.”

V.J. Philips, former Indian captain, however says the tournament doesn’t offer much for youngsters.

“The WSH is only productive for established players as the roster doesn’t include many juniors. I’m glad that decent money is being offered to our players but I would be gladder if the national championship is promoted with the same financial muscle,” he adds.

The key member of India’s 1975 World Cup winning team wants the emphasis on sub-junior, junior and senior national championships.

“It is a pity that we haven’t been conducting the nationals, which are crucial to generate jobs for unemployed players, regularly. In recent times, the FIH conducted one and Hockey India organised another. The need of the hour is one proper tournament, sanctioned by both bodies. It is players who are suffering in the crossfire,” he says.

Philips is put off by the names of some players he sees in the WSH roster. “I heard Arjun Halappa is leading the Bengaluru team. I don’t how long he will keep playing. Don’t we have younger, sharper and more agile players in the country? The WSH is facing a threat of becoming a tournament for those over the hill. In other teams too, I find players who can’t hope to don an Indian cap again,” he says.

Another vexing issue the WSH is confronted with is the availability of current Indian players. According to the organisers of the WSH, Sardara Singh, Bharat Chhetri, Sandeep Singh, Rupinderpal Singh and P.R. Sreejesh have been roped in for the month-long league.

But they are all integral part of India’s current squad that will be preparing for the Olympic qualifiers in December and January.

Hockey India has threatened to ban WSH entrants from national duties. The FIH has also gone on record that the WSH doesn’t have its approval.

Sardara has been appointed Bhopal captain and he will be taking a huge risk if he goes on to ignore HI’s warning and play in the WSH. In the battle for one-upmanship, players are facing an uncertain future.

Philips says the WSH could benefit some players who have not been considered for national selection if Hockey India softens its stand.

“For example, Chennai’s Adam Sinclair can grab headlines through his performances in the WSH. At the same time, the question mark remains whether Hockey India will recognise his efforts in an unofficial tournament. I will be happy if HI relents and keeps a watch on the WSH,” he adds.