New Delhi, Aug 10 (IANS) Hockey India (HI) on Monday imposed a nine-month ban on midfielder Gurbaj Singh for indiscipline and misbehaviour.
The ban makes Gurbaj ineligible to play in any event sanctioned by HI, Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) and the international hockey federation (FIH) from August 10 till May 9, next year.
The unanimous decision was taken following a meeting of the HI/Hockey India League (HIL) Athletes Disputes and Grievance Redressal Committee here on Monday to review Gurbaj’s conduct.
The committee included chairman Harbinder Singh and members R.P. Singh, A.B. Subbaiah and Jasjeet Kaur and was conducted in the presence of coach Jude Felix and Gurbaj.
Felix had submitted a report post the conclusion of the Hockey World League (HWL) Semi-Finals in Belgium providing feedback on Gurbaj’s conduct during the last three tournaments — HWL Semi-Finals, India vs Japan series and Sultan of Azlan Shah Cup.
The report mentioned that Gurbaj showed lack of respect to coaches and other support staff. He only listened to the then chief coach Paul van Ass and didn’t behave in a professional way, created groupism in the squad. He also showed discontent by refusing to play in any position other than the right midfield.
“The committee also reviewed the reports submitted by coaches, support Staff and athletes at the conclusion of the 2012 Olympics,” said an HI statement.
“These reports along with that of Mr. Jude Felix clearly brought to the forefront the ongoing unacceptable behaviour of Mr. Gurbaj Singh which was not in the best interest of the national team as it prepares for the 2016 Olympics.”
Gurbaj will have an opportunity to appeal against the decision within 30 days to the HI Executive Board.