Hockey legends criticise Indian team selection after World Cup exit

The Indian men's hockey team's early exit from the World Cup has drawn sharp criticism from veterans of the sport, who have pointed to questionable team selection and long-standing tactical deficiencies as key factors in the disappointing campaign.

While few observers expected India to end its five-decade wait for a World Cup title, the team's failure to advance past the group stages has raised concerns about decision-making at the administrative level. Legends of Indian hockey have suggested that player selection may have been influenced by factors other than merit and form.

The premature exit has exposed vulnerabilities that have plagued Indian hockey for years, according to analysts. Issues including inconsistent performance in crucial matches, gaps in squad depth, and questions about coaching strategies have resurfaced as topics of debate within the sport.

The setback adds pressure on the Indian hockey establishment to conduct a thorough review of both playing personnel and the broader structure of the sport. With future tournaments on the horizon, officials face mounting calls to address systemic issues and restore confidence in the national team.