Gagan Ajit named captain

Chennai:

Gagan Ajit Singh was named captain of the Indian hockey team for the forthcoming Champions Trophy tournament to be held here from December 10 to 18. Gagan Ajit replaces veteran defender Dilip Tirkey who was originally named captain. However, Tirkey's illness forced the Indian Hockey Federation to appoint a new captain. Tirkey had been down with sinusitis for the last few days. Gagan Ajit said it was a satisfying as well as a disappointing moment for him. "It is satisfying as well as disappointing. At this point of time, with three days left for the tournament to begin, we cannot miss a player of Tirkey's calibre," he said. Tirkey has been replaced with young defender William Xalxo. (PTI)