Former Olympian blames KPS Gill for Charlesworth's resignation

New Delhi, Jul 29 (UNI) Former hockey Olympian Jagbir Singh has blamed the previous IHF regime led by KPS Gill for the departure of Ric Charlesworth.

''Whatever happened with Charlesworth was due to the previous regime,'' Jagbir Singh told mediapersons on the sidelines of an event here.

''He was a good coach and should have been better utilised.'' He also blamed the previous Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) management for the decline of hockey in the country.

''If the pillar which is holding up the building is not strong, the entire structure will fall down,'' Jagbir said.

The Arjuna Award winner praised AK Bansal, who coached the Indian juniors to the Asia Cup title but played down suggestions he may be put in charge of the senior team.

''Bansal has done well with the junior team. But senior team is a totally different matter,'' he stated.

Jagbir rubbished reports that he has been approached by the federation for the coach's job.

''I would not like to comment on this. This is pure speculation,'' he asserted. ''However if the offer comes, then also I will reject it for personal reasons.'' ''There will be an Olympic committee meeting on July 31 on this issue. A decision will be taken after that,'' he added.

UNI AB RKM AS1612