Former India hockey captain Manpreet Singh on Friday cleared the air around his omission from the national setup, stating that he had stepped away voluntarily to rest and spend time with his family, and not due to any disciplinary action. Questions were raised after the two-time Olympic bronze medallist was left out of the core group of 33 probables for the first time in 15 years. The development followed reports claiming that Manpreet was dropped after allegedly abusing a recreational drug during India’s tour of South Africa in December last year. Manpreet, however, took to social media to address the speculation and said the decision was taken to give him a much-needed break after a gruelling schedule.

Manpreet Singh post

“Since the Paris Olympics, it’s been non-stop hockey for me. Back-to-back tournaments, across Asia, Europe, Australia and South Africa,” Manpreet wrote on ‘X’. He also pointed to significant changes in his personal life over the past year. “Last year, my wife Illi and I were blessed with my second baby girl. With all the camps and tournaments lined up one after another…”

Manpreet Singh post

Explaining how the break came about, Manpreet said it followed discussions after the recently concluded Hockey India League, where he led Ranchi Royals to the final. “After a fantastic HIL, where my team Ranchi Royals played d final, Coach spoke to me & informed of his decision to allow me this much-needed rest.” The 33-year-old midfielder said the time away would help him recover both mentally and emotionally before returning to international hockey. “While this short break will allow me time with fam, it will also help me recharge mentally & comeback stronger for d team. “I thank @TheHockeyIndia and Coach for allowing me this short break and I wish the Indian Team best of luck for their Pro League,” he added. Hockey India had announced the list of probables on Thursday, with forward Dilpreet Singh and goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak also missing out. The upcoming FIH Pro League season will begin next month, with the India leg scheduled to be held in Rourkela from February 10 to 15. India will face Argentina in their opening match on February 11. Manpreet recently co-captained Ranchi Royals in the Hockey India League final, earning praise for his performances. He is also just one international appearance away from equalling Dilip Tirkey’s long-standing India record of 412 caps.