In a move to honor goalkeeper PR Sreejesh following his retirement after the Paris Olympics, Hockey India has decided that no other player in the senior men's squad will wear the No. 16 jersey. This tribute caps off a stellar 18-year career where he helped secure two straight Olympic bronze medals. Sreejesh is now set to guide the next generation as the coach of the junior men's team, mirroring the career transition of cricket icon Rahul Dravid.
Hockey India has announced the retirement of the No.16 jersey from the national senior men’s squad in honor of goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who announced his retirement from the sport following the Paris Olympics. The decision honors an 18-year career that included winning back-to-back Olympic bronze medals. Sreejesh will take over as the coach of the junior men’s hockey team, following in the footsteps of India’s legendary cricketer Rahul Dravid.
According to Hockey India secretary Bhola Nath, the No. 16 shirt has been retired from the senior men's team as a dedicated tribute to PR Sreejesh. This decision underscores the massive admiration the sporting community has for him. Beyond the ceremonial retirement of his jersey, Hockey India has officially tasked Sreejesh with leading the junior men's hockey team as their coach.
Drawing inspiration from Rahul Dravid, the 36-year-old Sreejesh had already expressed his ambition to enter coaching. He explained in an interview with PTI that while coaching was always his long-term plan, the exact timing depended on his family's support. He candidly mentioned that after retiring, his priority is his home life, adding that he needs to ensure his wife is on board with his professional moves.
Sreejesh outlined his approach to mentoring young athletes, citing Rahul Dravid's trajectory as a blueprint. He believes in starting at the grassroots with the juniors to develop a strong core of players and then guiding them as they transition into the senior national side.
Sreejesh's departure from the field closes a pivotal era for Indian hockey. However, his impact will persist not only through his Olympic achievements but through his commitment to the sport's growth. His vision and enthusiasm ensure that the future of Indian hockey remains bright.
The primary goal for Sreejesh in his new role is to establish a robust pipeline of talent for the national team. He intends to emulate Rahul Dravid's strategic climb—starting with the U-19 and 'A' teams before reaching the senior level. By implementing this structured approach, he hopes to ensure a steady stream of elite players for the senior squad.
Retiring the No. 16 jersey is a clear symbol of the prestige and gratitude Sreejesh has earned throughout his playing days. His immense contributions are well-recognized, and there is significant excitement within the hockey world regarding his transition into coaching.