Paris Olympics 2024: Hockey India has lodged a formal complaint regarding the umpiring quality and decision-making during the mens hockey quarter-final against Great Britain at the Paris Olympics on Sunday. The complaint focuses on a critical match between India and Great Britain, where several inconsistencies in officiating potentially influenced the games outcome, stated Hockey India.Key concerns raisedThe complaint identifies three main issues:1. Inconsistent Video Reviews: A controversial red card issued to Indias Amit Rohidas has sparked distrust in the video review system. The red card, given in the 17th minute for what was deemed an intentional hit with a stick, is seen by many as excessive. Red cards are rare in hockey, and many believe a yellow card would have sufficed, as Rohidas appeared to be trying to pull his stick away.2. Coaching During Shootout: The complaint points out that a British goalkeeper received coaching from behind the goalpost during the penalty shootout.3. Use of Technology: The British goalkeeper was spotted using a video tablet during the shootout, raising concerns about fair play.🚨 Hockey Indias Statement to the Media 🗣️Well Done @TheHockeyIndia , Much Needed action after todays match against Great Britan pic.twitter.com/1fSv4d2v4x— The Khel India (@TheKhelIndia) August 4, 2024These incidents have undermined confidence in the officiating process among players, coaches, and fans. Hockey India calls for a thorough review of these matters to uphold the integrity of the sport and ensure fair play in future matches, said Hockey India.Impact on Indias game strategyThe red card left India with only ten players on the field, forcing midfielder Manpreet Singh to step into defense. This change prevented India from employing their usual scoop ball strategy but managed to keep the game tight.The game was tied 2-2 in the shootout, with Indian goalkeeper PR Sreejesh making crucial saves against Connor Williamson and Phillip Ropper. James Albrey and Zach Wallace scored for Great Britain, while Harmanpreet Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, Lalit Upadhyay, and Rajkumar Pal netted for India.Team Indias resilient performanceCaptain Harmanpreet Singh praised the teams defensive efforts, stating, We had no option but to keep the score tied till the end. We focused on defense, we played to a structure, and today communication between the players was pretty good. It was a team effort.Despite the red card setback, the team maintained composure and focused on their game plan. We could not change what had happened. It was a team effort, it was our best defense, playing with 10 men, that was the hard part, Harmanpreet added.As India prepares for their next match, the captain emphasized the need for a strong mindset, stating, At this stage, we cant afford to be nervous, no matter who we play or if we play with an extra man or not. That mindset will remain in the next match.
