Hockey

The IOA-appointed ad-hoc committee for Indian hockey has decided to hire a foreign coach for the senior men's team.

The body on Friday appointed Harender Singh as the coach-in-charge till they find a suitable candidate. The decision is a complete departure from the policy they had been following earlier.

The ad-hoc committee also formed a seven-member technical and monitoring committee as well as a 15-member advisory committee for the smooth running of the game.

Apart from the two committees, they have also appointed an Advisor (Communications), Umpires Development Manager and Director (Administration).

"Ever since the ad-hoc committee came into picture, we are trying to set things right. We have now taken a decision to go for a foreign coach and have named Harender as the coach-in-charge," ad-hoc committee Chairman Suresh Kalmadi told reporters here.

He said that the committee has already initiated the process and has discussed the matter with International Hockey Federation (FIH).

"The FIH will soon be sending us three names after which the selection committee will study their credentials." He also informed that FIH Coach Development Committee chief, Tayyab Ikram would soon be visiting India to discuss the names with the ad-hoc committee.

According to sources within the selection committee, Harinder will hand over the reins of the team to the foreign coach once he is appointed, and will continue his services with the side in some other capacity.