'Not fired': Hockey India breaks silence on PR Sreejesh's explosive allegations

Hockey Indian has reacted strongly following former star India goalkeeper PR Sreejessh slammed the federation on its approach towards appointing foreign coaches. The governing body clarified that Sreejest's stint with the junior men's side had concluded on naturally following the completion of his contract and rejected the claims suggesting that he had been sacked from the role.

The controversy sparked after Sreejesh shared an emotional social media post, where he pointed to the team's consistent success under his guidance, including podium finishes in all five tournaments during his tenure. He further hinted that his exit was heavily linked to the federation's preference for bringing in an overseas coach.

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Hockey India denies claims from PR Sreejesh

Reacting to the controversy, Hockey India justified that PR Sreejesh's tenure as junior men's coach had officially came to an ended in December 2025 after the completion of his contract, after which the position was opened and advertised as part of the federation's standard recruitment process.

"The coaching term for P.R. Sreejesh was officially concluded as per contract in December 2025. After this, as per protocol the position was advertised and applicants were shortlisted and finalised as per a proper selection process basis merit," said the statement.

“We have in no terms “fired” Sreejesh and in fact had offered him the position of Coach for the Development team which plays a critical role for LA 28 and the next olympic cycle as well.

"This would have furthered his experience and exposure as a coach. However, he did not accept this position despite being asked to reconsider the decision,” the statement added.

Hockey India also clarified that the federation had no specific preference for appointing a foreign coach, rejecting claims made by PR Sreejesh in his social media statement.

How PR Sreejesh fared as a coach?

Under the guidance of PR Sreejesh, India secured the Men's Junior Asia Cup title, won a bronze medal at the FIH Junior Men's World Cup, and finished on the podium in all five tournaments during his stint. Amid the controversy, Hockey India defended its commitment towards nurturing Indian coaches, saying that the development of homegrown coaching talent remains top priority.