Former Indian junior men’s hockey team coach P. R. Sreejesh has publicly expressed his dissatisfaction over his removal from the position after just 17 months, alleging preference was given to a foreign coach. Sreejesh, who is also a former goalkeeper for the national team, conveyed his concerns in a strongly worded social media post on Wednesday evening.

During his tenure, India secured medals in five tournaments, including a bronze at the Junior World Cup, achievements Sreejesh highlighted while lamenting the brevity of his coaching term. He stated that this was the first time he had witnessed an Indian coach being replaced to accommodate a foreign trainer, and alleged that the junior team’s coaching vacancy was filled under pressure from senior team head coach Craig Fulton, who insisted on appointing a foreign coach for the junior squad as well.

Hockey India responded to the allegations by issuing a statement rejecting Sreejesh’s claims. The organization’s president, Dilip Tirkey, explained that Sreejesh’s contract had concluded and the position was subsequently advertised in accordance with established procedures. Tirkey added that the recruitment process identified a highly qualified candidate, whose appointment would be announced soon.

The dispute underscores ongoing discussions within Indian hockey circles about the balance between nurturing domestic coaching talent and engaging foreign expertise to enhance the national teams’ performance. While Sreejesh voiced disappointment over the decision and the implications for Indian coaches, Hockey India maintained that the selection process was transparent and merit-based.