On Saturday, a major controversy arose during India’s men’s hockey quarterfinal match against Great Britain when Indian defender Amit Rohidas was given red card. The incident occurred after Rohidas’ stick unintentionally struck a rival player’s face. Despite Hockey India’s formal complaint over the decision, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) upheld the red card and subsequently suspended Amit for the crucial semi-final against Germany. This decision has sparked outrage among Indian fans and officials.
Josua Burt’s suspension letter of Rohidas. It meant his is a Level I offence. Now, on Ind’s protest, FIH Disciplinary Committee can reverse d ruling or uphold. Coincidentally, Burt was involved when 5 Ind plyrs were suspended in ’11! He acted as Aus Coach in Chak De india film pic.twitter.com/NE9EcOE4qW
---Advertisement---— stick2hockey.com (@indianhockey) August 5, 2024
Suspension Letter Authored by ‘Chak De India’ Actor
It has now emerged that Amit’s suspension letter was authored by Joshua Burt, the actor who portrayed the coach of the Australian women’s hockey team in the iconic Indian movie ‘Chak De India’. In the film, Burt’s character famously faced a defeat at the hands of the Indian women’s hockey team as they defeated the Australian team in the World Cup final.
Also Read: Manu Bhaker Named India’s Flag-Bearer For Paris Olympics Closing Ceremony
Joshua Burt’s Background in Hockey
Born in Melbourne, Joshua Burt is not just an actor but also a passionate hockey enthusiast. He has made significant contributions to the sport off-screen, having coached, managed, and officiated at an elite level. Burt has been part of the officiating teams in both the Rio and Tokyo Olympics and is currently serving as a technical delegate to the FIH at the Paris Olympics.
India’s Quarterfinal Triumph Despite Setback
Despite the early setback in the game – over 40 minutes remained when Amit was shown the red card – India managed to force a penalty shootout against Great Britain. Displaying remarkable resilience, the Indian team clinched a 4-2 win in the shootout. The victory secured India’s place in the semi-final, where they will face Germany for a spot in the men’s hockey final.
The Indian team is not only aiming to better the color of their Tokyo 2020 bronze medal but also to give a befitting farewell gift to their talismanic goalkeeper, PR Sreejesh. Sreejesh has announced that the Paris Games will be his last international tournament, adding an emotional impetus to India’s campaign.
Also Read: IND Vs SL: Five Players Responsible For Team India’s Defeat In Second ODI Against Sri Lanka
