FIH suspends 2 Players, Pakistan apologises to India

Under pressure from Hockey India and other nations that called for a clean, peace and spirited Hockey, the International Hockey Federation, which initially did not act, finally suspended two Pakistani players Muhammad Tauseek and Amjad Ali for their unruly behaviour and obscene gesture towards Indian players, crowd and media during yesterday’s semifinal. Another player Shafqat Rasool was let off with a warning.

Both players cannot play in today’s final against Germany at the Champions Trophy. Earlier, Hockey India President Narinder Batra had taken a tough stand and threatened not to host any FIH event if no action is taken against the Pakistan players, who not only hurled obscene gesture, but also abused the Indian players and crowd.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Hockey Federation and Pakistani Coach tendered an unconditional apology to India for the mess. They accepted the guilt of their players and assured that such things won’t happen in future. Pakistan had beaten India 4-3 in a thrilling semifinal yesterday.