Chak De India actor behind India hockey star Amit Rohidas' suspension for Olympics semi-final?

Chak De India actor behind India hockey star Amit Rohidas' suspension for Olympics semi-final? (Pic Courtesy: X- @nnis_sports)

The Indian men's hockey team lived up to their fans' expectations by defeating Great Britain in the semi-final match at the Paris Olympics 2024 on Sunday. Despite being reduced to just 10 players after Amit Rohidas received a red card, India triumphed 4-2 in the shoot-out to advance to the finals. This victory keeps the Indian hockey team on track for a second consecutive Olympic medal. However, Rohidas's suspension, which sparked controversy, became a major talking point.

Following the red card, Rohidas was also given a one-match suspension, which was documented by technical delegate Joshua Burt. The suspension incited widespread outrage across the country, but few are aware of Burt's Bollywood connection.

Burt portrayed the coach of the Australian women's team in the 2007 hit film "Chak De! India," where the Australian team was depicted as the main antagonist, giving Team India a hard time. In light of his role in the film and recent events, many Indian fans have taken to social media to criticise him, labelling him a "real-life villain."

Regarding the incident, it is reported that Rohidas's stick swung close to the face of William Calnan of Great Britain during the second quarter. According to the International Hockey Federation’s 'Players Conduct' rules: "Players on the field must hold their stick and not use it in a dangerous manner. They must not lift their stick above the heads of other players."

With their quarter-final win, India has advanced to the semi-finals where they will face Germany for a chance to reach the final of the Paris Olympics. India last claimed an Olympic gold medal in the 1980 Moscow Games, and Paris offers a significant opportunity to make history. A win in the semi-finals would guarantee a silver medal, the last of which India won in the 1960 Rome Olympics.

(With Agency Inputs)