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Asked about the ban imposed on the Indian Olympic

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Press Trust of India
Association (IOA) by the International Olympic Committee, Negre said if the crisis is not resolved quickly, it will have adverse affect on Indian sports and sportsmen and hockey is no exception. "The IOC has suspended IOA. The next Olympics is still some time away and I hope the matter will be resolved soon between the IOC and IOA. But if it is not resolved and the IOC asks us to stop India from participating in international competitions, it will be a shame," the FIH said. He reiterated that Hockey India is the sole governing body for the game in the country but said FIH is open to talks with the rival Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) at any time. "HI is the future. IHF is not the future of India hockey. We did our best to find an amicable solution and we are still open to talks with anyone," he said. Meanwhile, the newly-appointed High Performance Director of Indian hockey, Roelant Oltmans said India will have to be patient to return to the top league of world hockey. "Indian hockey is heading for a great future, but don't expect results overnight. You at least need 6 six years. The talent is there but we also have to work on the development of youngsters," said Oltmans, who is the coach of the Uttar Pradesh Wizards in the inaugural HIL.

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First Published: Feb 07 2013 | 9:45 PM IST

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