New Delhi: Former Indian goalkeeper and junior men's national coach PR Sreejesh publicly voiced his indignation on Wednesday regarding his dismissal after a 17-month tenure, challenging Hockey India’s apparent inclination toward international coaching staff.

The national governing body has since refuted the allegations. In a pointed social media statement, Sreejesh noted that his leadership resulted in five medals across five tournaments, a term that concluded following the Junior World Cup late last year. Rather than renewing his contract, Hockey India chose to open the position to new applicants. Sreejesh, who originally secured the role in August 2024, had sought reappointment.

"It seems like my coaching career comes to an end after 1.5 years, during which we played 5 tournaments and secured 5 podium finishes, including a Junior World Cup bronze medal," Sreejesh wrote on X. "I have heard about coaches getting fired after bad performances. But this is the first time I am experiencing being removed to make way for a foreign coach."

Hockey India’s Response

Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey clarified that the legendary goalkeeper had not been terminated. Tirkey explained that Sreejesh’s contract naturally expired in December 2025 and that the federation followed standard protocol by advertising the vacancy and conducting a merit-based selection process.

"Hockey India would like to officially state that 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," Tirkey stated.

The federation president added that an unnamed, highly qualified candidate has been chosen and will be revealed shortly.

Tirkey further revealed that Sreejesh had been invited to lead the development squad—a role deemed vital for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic cycle—but the former Olympian declined the offer despite requests to reconsider. Sources within the organisation also indicated that Sreejesh was offered a specialised role as the goalkeeping coach for the senior men's team.

The Dispute Over Domestic Coaching

Sreejesh, a double Olympic bronze medalist who retired following the Paris 2024 Games, questioned whether domestic coaches were being overlooked in favour of overseas talent. He claimed that Tirkey informed him that senior men's coach Craig Fulton favoured a foreign lead for the junior program to ensure a seamless transition between levels.

"Hence, the continued preference for foreign coaches -- Can't Indian coaches develop Indian hockey?" Sreejesh asked.

He further noted that during a March 7, 2026, meeting with Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, he was encouraged to lead the nation's efforts toward the 2036 Olympics.

Tirkey categorically denied that any preference for foreign staff had been communicated to Sreejesh. He asserted that the federation is dedicated to the government's 2036 vision, which includes nurturing domestic coaching talent. Tirkey cited Hockey India’s coaching pathway, which has certified over 600 local coaches, as evidence of this commitment.

A Successful Record

During his time with the U-21 squad, Sreejesh oversaw a period of notable success. Under his guidance, India reached the Sultan of Johor Cup final, secured a bronze medal at the Junior World Cup held domestically, and won gold at the Men's Junior Asia Cup 2024 in Muscat.

"We continue to value P.R. Sreejesh as a legend of the sport and look forward to his future success," Tirkey concluded.

With inputs from PTI