IHF gag on players at World Cup

The Indian Hockey Federation, as if taking a cue from their cricket counterparts, banned their players from talking to the media at the hockey World Cup, beginning in Kuala Lumpur, on Sunday. Only the coach and the manager have been permitted to speak to journalists.

This was disclosed by India coach Cedric D'Souza on Saturday.

D'Souza said, ''Please don't ask me anything more on this, because I am only conveying the orders I received from the Indian Hockey Federation. The players are forbidden from talking to the press."

Many believe that the IHF's latest ruling has come in wake of indiscreet statements being made by some players. It is learnt that the IHF has not taken kindly to some senior players writing a column during the World Cup, as, they feel, commenting on players could affect the morale of the team.

Mail Sports Editor