Pune:
Suresh Kalmadi, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) Chief, has shouldered Dhanraj Pillay with the responsibility of managing all the inflow of funds from the corporates that displayed heart of gold in times of one of the biggest crisis that the national game had ever seen.
Kalmadi said, "Dhanraj will collect and manage all funds coming in. It is great that Shree Cement & Bajaj Allianz have come forward."
He explained the difference between cricket and hockey saying that cricket was a game played between 8-10 countries while the latter is an Olympic sport that is played worldwide. "This hockey crisis will be good for all olympic sports," he added.
On the tag of "National Shame" given to the crisis by many, Kalmadi said, " Hockey cannot be a national shame, its our pride. Everywhere in the world, India is synonymous with hockey. Small things happen everywhere. Everyone can sort out differences like Hooper and I did."
He also assured that no player will be targetted for the revolt. "Nobody should be targeted. We're not going to curb anybody.
Acknowledging the contribution of former players, Kalmadi announced that some money will also be kept aside for the ex-players of the Indian hockey team.
Appreciating the comments from the film world, the IOA Chief said, "I'm happy many from the film world. I want SRK and Amitabh to hold shows to raise extra funds for the development of hockey, our national sport."
Kalmadi confirmed that the players would definitely get their incentive if there is a podium finish at the World Cup 2010, starting next month.