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I am not against Bhaskaran, says Pillay

Indian hockey captain Dhanraj Pillay, who led his team to the Asian Games gold medal after 32 years in Bangkok last month, did feel a tinge of disappointment when he heard that he and six other seniors had been "rested" for the forthcoming hockey series.

Pillay said he was looking forward to the India-Pakistan Tests. Playing in them would have hardened him and the others and boosted their confidence, he said.

But he was hopeful that the rest would be temporary and he would regain his place in the side.

Pillay clarified that he was not against Vasudevan Bhaskaran taking charge again as the Indian coach, but added that Maharaj Krishna Kaushik, the sacked coach, was instrumental in instilling the much-needed team spirit and killer instinct in the players. "Playing and winning in Sydney 2000 was his dream," Pillay said.

The former captain felt the Indian Hockey Federation's move to build a team for the future should be welcomed. But at the same time it should not be forgotten that in the charged atmosphere that is normal when India plays Pakistan in any sport, raw talent may baulk without experience to fall back upon.

Pillay had a telephonic conversation with IHF president Kanwar Pal Singh Gill, but refused to divulge any details.

He gave no hint of hanging up his boots, but did mention that he has received fresh offers to play in France, Italy, Germany and Bangladesh.

UNI