With four leading national players suspended and a number of players committed to Mohammedan, the upcoming hockey season is all set to see a big group of players remaining out of action.
Bangladesh Hockey Federation imposed suspensions on national forward Russell Mahmud Jimmy, goalie Zahid Hossain, defender Imran Hasan Pintu and midfielder Qamruzzaman Rana on disciplinary grounds during the Asia Cup. Moreover, Asaduzzman Chandan, Shamsuddin Tuhin, Ashiquzzman - all former national numbers - are also suspended for alleged aggressive actions towards national hockey coach Naveed Alam during the preparation of the national team for the Asia Cup.
With these players sure to miss the league, another group of leading player’s fate are also hanging in the balance due to different issues. National forwards Pushkor Khisha Mimo, Moinul Islam Koushik, talented midfielder Sarwar Hossain may also join the list as they have reportedly taken money in advance from Mohammedan for the upcoming season. As Mohammedan are not playing in the league and other tournaments, these three young players may remain idle for the season. Koushik and Sarwar played for Usha and Mimo was a member of Abahani last year. As per the rules, any player who does not pick his token up during the players transfer remains as a part of the club they played for the previous year.
Usha and Abahani claimed that they are not in touch with the players as they are not responding to the calls. It was learnt that as they have taken money from Mohmmedan and are afraid to committ to the club. Mohammedan manager Ariful Haque Prince admitted the scenario. “They all have taken money from us and they have committed to playing for Mohammedan. If Mohammedan is not playing in the league or tournaments, they will also not play,” said Prince.
Prince added that the federation has relied on the BKSP players and the players of the services team to start the league but a good number of players will refrain from playing in the league.
