Legendary India goalkeeper PR Sreejesh confirmed that he had withdrawn his name from the player auction list for the Hockey India League 2024, which is being relaunched after a seven-year hiatus.
The 36-year-old based his decision on his desire to shape the budding talents of the nation in a mentorship role. Sreejesh expressed the same in his letter to Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey.
A report from the Telegraph further stated that he is set to reunite with former India coach Graham Reid as the former custodian will be working in a mentorship role for the Delhi franchise in the league. Reid serves as the head coach for the side.
“After much thought, I have decided to withdraw my name from the Player Auction for the upcoming Hockey India League,” the keeper said.
“I was extremely touched by your gesture to host a retirement function for me after our return from Paris. Very few players have had the privilege to end their careers on such a high. The past month and a half has been humbling and satisfying in equal measure. I ended my playing career on a high by standing on top of the Olympic podium for the second consecutive Games. Bowing down to the goalpost after the win over Spain and celebrating with my teammates was special, and I want those memories to remain with me forever. Returning to the turf for ‘One Last Dance’ does not feel right now, and I fear it would tamper with those memories and special moments,” he elaborated.
“The HIL, in its previous outing, helped develop an entire generation of Indian players and was the foundation that built India’s international success over the last few years. I believe it will do the same this time around and help give youngsters and a new crop of Indian players the exposure and experience to excel for the national team. I have achieved everything I ever dreamt of as a player, and it will be unfair for me to continue playing now, blocking perhaps a talented youngster’s spot,” Sreejesh said.
“My love and passion for Indian hockey remains intact, and with your blessings, I am about to embark on a new journey as a coach and mentor to the next generation of champions. That is my present and future now, and that is where my priorities lie. I will be involved with the Hockey India League in that capacity…,” he continued.
“It will be more of a mentorship role, using my experience to assist the team in every way possible,” he added.
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