Press Trust of India
New Delhi, August 10: Senior India hockey player Gurbaj Singh was Monday suspended for nine months for indulging in groupism and creating disharmony within the team, a decision which might shatter the experienced midfielder’s dream of playing in next year’s Rio Olympics.
The decision to suspend Gurbaj was taken after a meeting of HI’s disciplinary committee headed by Harbinder Singh. The other members of the panel were RP Singh, AB Subbaiah and Jasjeet Handa. The charges were levelled against Gurbaj by former India coach Jude Felix.
Gurbaj, however, has the option to lodge an appeal with HI’s appellate tribunal within a month’s time.
Harbinder while talking to reporters after the meeting said it was time to teach a lesson to Gurbaj, dubbed as a ‘problem child’ in Indian hockey, for his repeated misdemeanours.
“We have suspended Gurbaj for nine months starting today (Monday), which means he will be unable to play for India till May 9, 2016. The step was taken after Jude Felix in his (HWL) report had brought up disciplinary issues against Gurbaj,” Harbinder said.
“Both Gurbaj and Jude were present in the meeting and the committee gave Gurbaj a chance to tell his version. But obviously, he (Gurbaj) can appeal against the suspension,” Harbinder added.
A talented midfielder and considered a workhorse, Gurbaj has been in news for wrong reasons in the past as well. He was suspended for a brief period after the London Olympics following similar accusations from the then chief coach Michael Nobbs and his support staff.
Harbinder hailed Gurbaj as a key player for India but said discipline is something which cannot be compromised upon. “He is a very good player but discipline is a must. Such charges were levelled against him after the London Olympics by Nobbs. That time he was let off after he promised he will improve his behaviour,” he said.
Gurbaj, on his part, termed the punishment ‘harsh’ and said irrespective of the suspension he will keep his focus solely on the game. He also said that he will appeal against the suspension after talking to his family members, fellow players and well wishers.
“I don’t know why such a report was given against me. I didn’t do anything. During the meeting, I cleared my position. But the punishment is a little too harsh,” Gurbaj informed. “I will appeal and I hope that my suspension will be revoked.”