Ric Charlesworth interview: "HIL a boon for Indian hockey"

Ric Charlesworth is a former Australian Cricketer and hockey player. Regarded as one of the best coaches in the world, he is currently in charge of the Mumbai Magicians of the Hockey India League.

1. The last time you were in India you had to go through a bitter experience. Were you reluctant to come back?

Well the last time I had some issues with the government body however this time I am here for a completely different reason.

2. Are you looking forward to HIL?

Yes of course that’s why I’m here. It’s going to be a boon for the Indian players and Indian hockey.

3. In past there have been leagues like PHL and WSH, which haven’t been very successful. What is the success rate of this series?

HIL is a league way ahead of those and has the best chances of success. It is managed by an international body and has the best players of the world playing in it, so one can expect that it’s going to be one of the best.

4. What do you have to say about your team Mumbai Magicians?

We have just arrived in India and in a week matches are going to start, so I have a tough job in hand to get to know them and prepare them well for the tournament. We have a pretty young and dynamic team, I am sure things will turn out fine.

5. What do you have to say about Sandeep Singh?

I have known Sandeep for a long time now and he is a very good player. He will have a very important role to play in the team. I have spoken to him and seemed very positive. This should help him get his place back in the national team.

6. Will you be able to adjust with India’s weather, food and culture?

As far as the weather is concerned, Mumbai is pleasant. It’s going to be difficult of course but I can’t help it. We will have to juggle a lot between different cities, which is going to be a little hectic, therefore we will have to prepare ourselves to face various situations.

Edited by Staff Editor