Noida, Feb 1 (NationPress) The general secretary of Hockey India, Bhola Nath Singh, has clarified that the exclusion of veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh from the selection was not a management decision. In fact, Manpreet himself requested a break, and this request was acknowledged.

Along with goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak and forward Dilpreet Singh, Manpreet was not included in the 33-player roster for the national preparatory camp ahead of the FIH Pro League, which is set to take place from February 1 to 7.

Contrary to earlier reports that claimed Manpreet was dropped due to alleged disciplinary issues from India's three-Test series in South Africa, which took place from December 2 to 16, Bhola Nath emphasized that the decision was entirely made by the player. The series itself was tough for the Indian team, resulting in two losses and one draw.

Reiterating the situation, Bhola Nath stated, “The decision was made solely by Manpreet. I want to make it clear to all hockey enthusiasts that any player who is fit and talented will certainly get a chance. No external force, not even God, can stop a deserving player from representing the nation.”

“Manpreet requested this break on his own; the management did not rest him. He even expressed his desire for a break on social media. Players who are fit and deserving will always get opportunities. Those not fit will remain on the sidelines,” Bhola Nath told IANS during the Pro Wrestling League final at the Noida Indoor Stadium.

Previously, Manpreet had shared on X that he was taking a break to spend more time with his family, especially after a period of continuous play since the Paris Olympics 2024. He mentioned that this time off would be beneficial for him to recharge mentally and return stronger.

“Since the Paris Olympics, I have had back-to-back tournaments across various continents. My wife Illi and I are now blessed with our second baby girl. I haven’t had much quality time with my family. I had been planning to request a break before the World Cup and Asian Games this year,” Manpreet stated.

“After a successful HIL where my team, Ranchi Royals, reached the final, my coach discussed this decision with me, allowing me this much-needed rest. This short break will grant me time with my family and help me recharge mentally for the team’s challenges ahead. I am grateful to TheHockeyIndia and my coach for this break, and I wish the Indian team all the best for the Pro League,” he concluded.

The FIH Men’s Pro League is set to be held at the Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium in Rourkela from February 10 to 15, marking the start of India's campaign for the year.