Archive · 31 Jan 2026
Fulton Defends Manpreet, Hockey India Insists on Omission
Manpreet Singh, a famous hockey player, was not included in India's team for a camp because he did some wrong things during a tour to South Africa.
The coach, Craig Fulton, was very upset and wanted to quit because he thought Manpreet was important.
But Hockey India, the organization that manages hockey in India, told him to say that Manpreet just needed rest.
Manpreet is very fit and has played many games, but some people in Hockey India think other players can learn from different seniors.
The coach believes Manpreet's experience is important for big tournaments coming up soon.
Manpreet Singh omitted from India's core hockey probables due to disciplinary issues and drug abuse.
Coach Craig Fulton threatened to resign but was persuaded to continue by Hockey India.
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey, secretary general Bhola Nath Singh, and chief selector RP Singh insisted on Manpreet's omission.
Fulton argued for Manpreet's inclusion, citing his fitness and experience for upcoming tournaments.
Hockey India announced the probables list, omitting Manpreet, Dilpreet Singh, and Krishan Bahadur Pathak, but did not mention the alleged violation.
- Who
- Manpreet Singh, Craig Fulton, Hockey India
- What
- Omission of Manpreet from core probables
- When
- February 1 to 7 camp, South Africa tour in December
- Where
- Rourkela, South Africa
- Why
- Disciplinary issues and drug abuse
- Player Omitted
- Manpreet Singh
- Reason for Omission
- Disciplinary issues and drug abuse
- Coach's Reaction
- Offered to resign, later persuaded to continue
- Upcoming Events
- World Cup (August), Asian Games (September)
- Manpreet's Fitness
- Top four in the core group
- Hockey India's Statement
- Manpreet sought rest