In an interview within, legendary hockey player PR Sreejesh discussed his decision to resist the temptation to return to playing and his transition into a mentorship role with the new HIL franchise, Delhi SG Pipers. Sreejesh expressed confidence that the Hockey India League, making a comeback after seven years, will greatly benefit Indian hockey.
After an illustrious career protecting India’s goalpost, PR Sreejesh has officially embraced a new role. No longer in the goalkeeper’s gear that he wore for over 15 years, Sreejesh has traded the fast-paced action on the field for a position on the side-lines as Director and Mentor for the Delhi SG Pipers, one of the franchises in the newly revived Hockey India League (HIL), set to begin on December 28.
For someone who dedicated years to wearing pads and a helmet with unwavering determination, this transition represents a significant change. However, for Sreejesh, this move feels like a natural progression one he has been preparing for long before his retirement. This preparation didn’t happen in just one and a half months; it’s been a process over the last few years, he shared.
Leaving the playing mindset behind is challenging. It’s really tough to break out of that mentality.
Hockey India League 2.0: Key Insights
PR Sreejesh decision to retire from his playing career wasn’t made lightly, but it was carefully planned. After securing his second Olympic medal with the Indian men’s team at the Paris 2024 Games, Sreejesh had the option to continue his career. However, he chose to step away while still at the peak of his game, leaving fans applauding his brilliance.
Part of me wanted to play one or two more seasons of the Hockey India League, but I also wanted people to remember me finishing on a high note. Paris was the best way to go out, Sreejesh said.
His retirement and choice to forgo the HIL player auction signalled the close of one chapter, but it opened the door to a new, exciting opportunity.
I NEEDED TO MOVE ON The return of the HIL after a seven years gap tempted Sreejesh to reconsider his retirement. Initially, he even registered for the player auction before ultimately deciding to pull out. After consulting my coaches, well-wishers, and family, we all agreed that Paris was my peak, and it was time to move forward, Sreejesh explained.
At that pivotal moment, tennis legend Mahesh Bhupathi, CEO of the SG Pipers group that owns the Delhi franchise, reached out with a perfectly timed offer.
Mahesh bhai approached me at the right time. He said all the right things, and I was convinced that this was the right platform, Sreejesh recalled, showing clear excitement for his new role.
I think HIL is the perfect stage for me to challenge myself in a new way and grow. I’m excited to see how things unfold over the next three years.
A MATCH MADE IN SPORTSMANSHIP
Working with Mahesh Bhupathi, another athlete familiar with the pressures of elite competition, was a key factor in PR Sreejesh decision to join Delhi SG Pipers as a mentor.
Bhupathi echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that their shared experiences as top-level athletes fostered mutual trust. Being athletes ourselves played a big part in this partnership, Bhupathi remarked. I shared our vision with him, and it aligned with what he wanted to achieve in his second innings.
Though Sreejesh received offers from several franchises, he felt an immediate connection with Delhi. Everyone is seeking experts, he shared. Initially, I declined all the offers because I thought I would play in the Hockey India League. But once I decided to retire, Mahesh bhai’s approach was timely. Working with another sportsperson made it an easy decision.
For Bhupathi, having Sreejesh on board was a clear win. Sreejesh is a champion. He has done incredible things for Indian hockey and for himself. We wanted our franchise to be associated with extraordinary individuals, and Sreejesh fits that perfectly.
SREEJESH EXCITED FOR HIL’S RETURN
With the Hockey India League set to return, there are high expectations for its impact on Indian hockey. For Sreejesh, the opportunity to contribute to the league in a non-playing role was one of the main draws.
HIL is a breeding ground for young Indian talent, Sreejesh explained, stressing the importance of young players learning from international stars. They get the chance to train, play, and learn from top foreign players, which is invaluable.
He also pointed out how the pressure of playing in front of massive crowds, particularly at venues like Rourkela, which can attract more than 15,000 fans, helps in player development. Managing pressure while performing in front of thousands is something young players will master from Day 1.
Reflecting on the past success of the HIL, Sreejesh believes it has been pivotal to Indian hockey’s rise. The last editions of HIL played a crucial role in our recent triumphs, including two Olympic medals, he said.
THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING
As Sreejesh takes on this new challenge, he’s determined to bring the same dedication that characterized his playing career. I’m quite busy these days, he said, detailing his new schedule with Delhi SG Pipers and his upcoming work with the junior national team.
Despite his mentor role, the competitive fire still burns. I’ll still train, Sreejesh joked, admitting that while he may no longer play professionally, he can’t resist the urge to put on his goalkeeper gear for fun.
When asked about trading his usual jersey for formal wear in his new role, Sreejesh laughed. No, once I’m done here, it’s always going to be a jersey and t-shirt for me, he said.
As the Hockey India League prepares for its eagerly awaited comeback, all eyes will be on Sreejesh and the Delhi SG Pipers. For the Indian hockey legend, this marks the start of a new chapter one where he steps off the field as a player but remains a guiding light for the future of Indian hockey.
