‘Deserters’ Sandeep, Sardar banned for 2 yrs

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In a development that can have serious repercussions on the Indian team’s future, Hockey India on Saturday banned senior players Sandeep Singh and Sardar Singh for two years on grounds of indiscipline.

Drag-flicker Sandeep and midfielder Sardar had left the just-concluded national camp in Bengaluru on August 23, citing “family matters”.

There was more to the players’ sudden departure though, with reports of the duo being involved in an altercation with camp co-ordinator S.S. Grewal.

Sandeep and Sardar were also part of the five “rebel” players, who had left the camp mid-way last month to attend a function pertaining to the World Hockey Series, a league by the rival Indian Hockey Federation.

Some sections believe that the two were also under pressure from the IHF for “apologising” to HI, for their conduct.

Said Hockey India general secretary Narinder Batra here on the day, “This is the third offence in six months by these two players. Hockey India took note of the happenings and decided that enough was enough.

“Sandeep and Sardar have been banned for two years from all international and national events pertaining to Hockey India. It is sheer indiscipline and if we do not act now, it will influence the juniors in the team.”

The players, however, have been given 30 days time to appeal the ban, following which a five-member committee would decide on further action. They committee would consist of a member each from the Sports Authority of India, the Indian Olympic Association, a players’ representative and two HI officials.

On the day, Sandeep and Sardar — part of the China-bound Indian team for the Asian Champions Trophy beginning September 3 — were asked to explain their actions but the duo’s contradictory statements went against them.

Sardar, it was learnt, told the committee members that he had serious family problems that had lingered since the last three weeks. Sandeep cited family problems too, while also accusing Grewal of “using abusive language and misconduct”.

Said an official, “The general view was that the players had deserted the team in the most difficult times. If they had problems, they could have informed Hockey India in advance, and not three days before the team’s departure. The priority should be playing for the country, but sadly it hasn’t been the case with these two, even in the past.

“In today’s meeting, they stood their ground and also regretted their decision to leave the camp. It was highly contradictory.”

The players refused to comment on the matter, saying they “were contemplating what to do next”.
The duo were an integral part of chief coach Michael Nobbs’ plan over the next few years.