Harendra Singh Steps Down as India Women's Hockey Team Coach Amid Personal Reasons
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Harendra Singh, the Indian women's hockey team coach, has unexpectedly stepped down after 20 months in charge, citing personal reasons. In a statement, he expressed his gratitude for the experience and wished the team continued success. Singh took over the team in 2023, following India's failure to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Under his guidance, the team won the Asian Champions Trophy in November 2024 but struggled in the 2024-25 Pro League, finishing ninth and last, leading to relegation to the Nations Cup. The team also finished runners-up at the Asia Cup in September. The decision to step down comes ahead of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, which will be India's last chance to qualify for the quadrennial event. Hockey India has thanked Singh for his services and will announce a new coach soon. Dutch coach Sjoerd Marijne is reportedly a top contender for the position. The Indian women's team will continue preparations for the qualifiers as planned, despite the setback of missing the 2024 Olympics and being relegated from the Pro League.
