Hockey WC: Akashdeep Singh may face match suspension

Striker Akashdeep Singh might face two-match suspension for allegedly breaching the code of conduct at the conclusion of the quaterfinals between India and Netherlands at Hockey World Cup on December 13.

International Hockey Federation (FIH) technical delegate Christian Deckenbrock said that Singh committed a breach of the code of conduct by "using language or gesture(s) that is seriously obscene, seriously offensive or have a seriously insulting nature to another participant or any other third person."

Deckenbrock, in accordance with tournament regulations, decided to give written notice of his decision to FIH CEO Thierry Weil and to recommend him to refer the case to the FIH disciplinary commissioner.

In his decision, the FIH technical delegate indicated that if India had still been in the competition he would have suspended the player for the next two matches.

"Furthermore, the FIH technical delegate stated that he will recommend that a suspension should apply for the next FIH top-tier competition including FIH Series Final at which India will participate and that it should also be considered whether the number of players which India may use in these matches will be limited according to 5.1 of the Regulations of the FIH Tournament Regulations for FIH Top Tier Outdoor Competitions," a statement from the world body read.