PR Sreejesh has been one of the finest goalkeepers for the Indian Hockey Team. He retired after winning the bronze medal in the Paris Olympics in 2024. He announced that he would retire from the national squad after the Paris Olympics. As always, he was razor-sharp in the goalpost as India grabbed a second bronze medal at the Olympics, edging Spain 2-1 in a dramatic match.
Sreejesh’s 18-year career in men’s field hockey came to an end with a bow in front of the goalpost. After his retirement, the team also retired his jersey in honour of the keeper. As a mark of respect, the players wore identical red jerseys with Sreejesh’s name and number 16 on the back. Hockey India has announced that they will retire jersey No. 16 in honour of their legendary goalkeeper. This was done after team India returned to the country.
PR Sreejesh also is the head coach of the India men’s national U-21 team. Despite leaving the international field he was expected to continue in the relaunched Hockey India League (HIL), which was last played in 2017. However, there has been a shocking decision that has come from his side. The legendary player have withdrawn his name from the auction table of the HIL.
PR Sreejesh chooses mentorship over playing
Is PR Sreejesh’s coaching focus a sign of giving up on his playing career? This decision has truely been shocking for every hockey fans. However, giving a clarity on the same, in an exclusive interaction with Sportstar, Sreejesh confirmed that he had written to Hockey India stating his desire to step away from the field. He wants to groom the next generation of players.
Sreejesh, who has already been assigned to the young Indian men’s squad pending final approval from the SAI and the sports ministry. He will serve as Brand Ambassador for one of the forthcoming league’s franchises. Interestingly, the government clearance is pending on his remuneration, and federation officials have stated that HI will pay the salary till then.
