Delhi HC paves way for players participation in WSH

MUMBAI: The World Series Hockey got a major boost as the Delhi High Court Monday directed International Hockey Federation and its recognised body Hockey India to allow Indian players to participate in the league since it does not clash with their national duties.

The two-member bench comprising acting Chief Justice A K Sikri and Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw were hearing a petition filed by former India hockey captain and coach Joacquim Carvalho seeking to restrain HI from banning players, who participate in the league.

Co-promoted by Nimbus Sport and Indian Hockey Federation, the WSH has been facing continuous onslaught from the FIH and HI, who have been threatening players of ban if they participate in the ?unsanctioned? tournament.

"We are of the opinion that the matter can be placed before the International Hockey Federation (FIH) in the same prospective as narrated by us in the judgment. Clarification can be sought from the FIH. At this time, the FIH can be impressed upon to sanction the event (WSH) if it is still required, more so, when the new dates to be fixed by the organisers are not in any way clashing with the schedule fixed by FIH for international events," the bench said.

It further added, "Domestic events can be arranged in such a manner that it does not come in conflict with preparatory camps or the period when the international events are going to be held."

The bench also ruled that regulations of HI restraining players? participation in WSH would apply "in respect of the commitments made after 31 March 2011", which was agreed by FIH as the cut-off date for all players to participate in the league.

The franchise-based league will be held from 29 February to 2 April featuring eight teams. The organisers, who have finalised owners of five franchises, are yet to announce the owners of three more teams namely Punjab, Chandigarh and Bhopal.
The tournament was originally scheduled to kick off from 17 December to 22 January but had to be reworked to avoid a clash with Hockey Olympic qualifiers, which will be held from 18-26 February in Delhi involving six teams each in men?s and women?s category.

Boasting of a total prize money of $2 million, the WSH will be telecast on Neo Sports.