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New Delhi: Hockey India (HI) has officially clarified that its senior and junior men’s and women’s teams will not be prevented from engaging in sporting gestures with Pakistan sides in future international and multisport events.
This clarification comes in the wake of recent social media discussions surrounding Indian junior hockey players exchanging high-fives with their Pakistani counterparts during the Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia last month.
The Recent Controversy: What Sparked the Debate?
The sporting gestures at the Sultan of Johor Cup drew divided reactions online. This was largely influenced by prior incidents involving Indian cricket teams.
During the Asia Cup T20 tournament in the UAE, the Indian men’s cricket team notably refused to shake hands with Pakistan players. This decision was made in solidarity with victims of a terror attack in Pahalgam.
Similarly, the Indian women’s cricket team also avoided customary handshakes with Pakistan players during a league game at the Women’s World Cup.
Hockey India’s Official Stance: Upholding the Spirit of the Game
Hockey India’s Secretary General, Bhola Nath Singh, firmly stated the association’s position. He emphasized that HI operates under a different framework than cricket.
“We are not governed by cricket. Whatever the cricketers did, it was their choice,” Singh told TOI. “We follow the Olympic Charter and what FIH (International Hockey Federation) says.”
Adhering to the Olympic Charter and FIH Principles
Singh confirmed that Hockey India has not issued any directives to its players to avoid handshakes or high-fives with opponents, including Pakistan.
He highlighted the association’s commitment to the fundamental principles of sportsmanship and fair play.
In his statement, Singh reiterated, “There are no such instructions from HI to its players. We have followed the spirit of the game. We never gave the players any directions in this regard.”
A Clear Distinction from Cricket
The HI Secretary General made it clear that hockey’s governing body would not impose restrictions on its players in future encounters with Pakistan. The focus remains squarely on the game.
“In the future meetings with Pakistan, HI won’t give any directions to its players. We will play and look to win,” he added.
Looking Ahead: Celebrating Indian Hockey’s Legacy
This clarification from Hockey India also came amidst preparations for a significant milestone: the 100 years’ celebration of Indian hockey.
The main function for this historic event is scheduled for November 7th at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium.
Highlighting Gender Parity and Inclusivity
A special 30-minute exhibition match will be a key highlight of the centenary celebrations. This match will feature a Sports Minister’s XI against Hockey India’s mixed XI.
The mixed XI will comprise both men’s and women’s national team players, underscoring several important values:
- Gender Parity: Showcasing equal opportunities and recognition for both male and female athletes.
- Teamwork: Emphasizing collaboration across the sport.
- Inclusivity: Promoting a welcoming environment for all participants in hockey.
Conclusion: Embracing Sportsmanship on the Global Stage
Hockey India’s recent clarification reaffirms its dedication to the core values of sport, guided by the Olympic Charter and the International Hockey Federation. By allowing its players to engage in customary sporting gestures, HI champions respect, fair play, and the unifying power of sports.
This principled stance sets a clear precedent for maintaining the spirit of competition and camaraderie, irrespective of off-field sentiments. As Indian hockey celebrates a century of legacy, it continues to lead by example on the international stage.
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