Legendary goalkeeper P.R. Sreejesh has thrown his hat back into the ring for the position of chief coach of India’s junior men’s hockey team, with a final decision expected within the next two weeks.
Sreejesh, a two-time Olympic bronze medallist, saw his contract conclude on December 21 last year, shortly after guiding India to a memorable bronze-medal finish at the FIH Men’s Junior World Cup in Chennai. His tenure, which began in August 2024, ended on a high note as the team staged a dramatic 4-2 comeback victory over Argentina to secure a podium finish — ending a nine-year wait for a medal at the tournament.
Confirming his reapplication, Sreejesh said he is currently back home in Kerala following the completion of his contract. “Yes, my contract expired after the World Cup, precisely on December 21 last year, and after that, I am in my hometown in Kerala. But I have reapplied when the advertisement came. I knew some six to seven others had also applied. Let’s see what happens now,” he told PTI.
Reflecting on his first stint as a coach, Sreejesh described it as deeply rewarding. “It has been a wonderful learning experience where I gave them insights about what I have tackled in international stage.
“Yes, there were ups and downs, but the bronze medal at the World Cup was a highlight, although we targeted the gold. After retirement, my goal was to give back to the game and what better than passing on my knowledge and experience to the junior players. Let’s see what happens when the interview and screening starts but I am hopeful,” he added.
Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh confirmed that the selection process is underway, with multiple candidates in contention. “Yes, as per due procedure an advertisement has been put out for junior men’s team coach as Sreejesh’s contract expired after the World Cup.
“Six-seven candidates have shown their interest, including Sreejesh. Now a screening and interview would be done, and in the next 7-14 days, the appointment will be made,” Bhola Nath told PTI.
Sreejesh’s reapplication signals his continued commitment to nurturing young talent and shaping the next generation of Indian hockey. With his vast international experience and a successful junior World Cup campaign behind him, the coming fortnight will determine whether he continues his journey from guarding the goalpost to guiding the nation’s future stars from the sidelines.
