Bhaskaran laments poor govt support for hockey

Tiruchirapalli, Aug 20 (UNI) Indian hockey team coach Bhaskaran has found fault with the Union Government for the bad shape of the sport, despite it being the national game of the country.

Talking to mediapersons here last night, he asked what good the government had done for Indian hockey.

He said he was planning to launch a hockey academy to promote the sport and produce talented players. He sought the cooperation of the Union and State governments in this regard.

Referring to the Asia Cup hockey championship, to commence in Chennai on August 31, Bhaskaran said ''the Korean team will pose a challenge to us. However, we will have a better edge and bright chance to win the Asia Cup.'' The former Captain said the Indian team should utilise the penalty corners and display their hard work and efficiency during the entire duration of the game, especially the dying moments.

To a question, he said the team had 90 per cent chance to qualify for the Olympics.

Bhaskaran wanted school authorities to give top most priority to the game. ''We should encourage youngsters interested in hockey and provide all kinds of facilities, including synthetic turf court for their training.'' He admitted that there were differences in training facilities between India and foreign countries, but said there was no fault or shortage in the coaching facilities available in the country.

UNI