Australian Chris Ciriello has officially become the third high-profile name to quit Indian hockey in a month. He was the men’s analytical coach to the team. This increases the uncertainty around the men’s national team along with problems for the federation.
It was earlier reported that Ciriello was unlikely to return due to health issues. On Sunday, he formally sent in his resignation.
He had joined in 2018 primarily for penalty corners. However, he was soon an important part of the coaching staff.
The former World Cup winner suffers from extreme skin cirrhosis. He is currently undergoing treatment. He also made his decision due to the rising cases of COVID-19 in the country.
The Tokyo Olympics will take place in less than a year. Hockey India is struggling with the loss of personnel from the men’s coaching staff. The team currently only has Coach Graham Reid and trainer Robin Arkell left at the SAI Centre, Bengaluru. It has Shivendra Singh and Piyush Dubey as assistant coaches.
According to sources, foreigners’ unwillingness to travel due to the pandemic and the lack of recognition by the Sports Ministry has added to the problems.