Hockey India have officially raised concerns regarding 'umpiring' and 'decision-making' at the Paris Olympics 2024 after the men's team advanced to the semifinal with a win over Great Britain, with the match not without its share of controversial moments. The match was locked at 1-1 after regulation time, after which the contest shifted to the penalty shootout. It was where PR Sreejesh showed all his experience as his solidity helped India beat Great Britain 4-2 to make it to the last four for the second consecutive time at the Olympics. 'Bharat Semifinal Jaa Raha Hai' Veteran Commentator Sunil Taneja Breaks Down in Tears While Calling Indian Men's Hockey Team Quarterfinal Victory Over Great Britain at Paris Olympics 2024 (Watch Video).
However, India did not have it easy, needing to play for a good part of the game with 10 men after Amit Rohidas saw a red card. The video umpire felt that Rohidas struck the face of a Great Britain player with his stick and was subsequently sent off. In a statement, the governing body of hockey in India highlighted a number of issues, one of which was pertaining to this development. "Inconsistent video umpire reviews, particularly regarding the red card decision for an Indian player, which has eroded trust in the video review system," a part of the statement read. It also included two other issues: the Great Britain goalkeeper was being coached from behind the goalpost during the shootout. And also a tablet, which the British goalkeeper used during the penalty shootout. Paris Olympics 2024: 10-Men India Beats Great Britain To Advance Into Hockey Semifinals.
"These 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," the statement further added. Coming to the match, India took the lead in the 22nd minute, but Great Britain's Lee Morton soon equalised. With this, India would now take on either Germany or Argentina in the semifinal.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 04, 2024 08:49 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).