Prove your worth: Nobbs

“This (removal of ban) comes as good news to Indian hockey,” Nobbs said in a statement. “The two have not been in their best behaviour in recent times but their contribution to the team cannot be discounted.”

However, Nobbs -- who sources revealed was consulted before the decision to remove the ban was taken -- said the duo’s decision to walk out of the camp still rankled.

“The way they walked out of the camp in August still rankles me. Apprehensions remain about their intentions. But in the interests of the Indian team, which needs to marshall every bit of its resources ahead of the qualifiers, I welcome them back to the camp.”

Nobbs said their return will give him more options ahead of the Olympic qualifiers but he stressed that they needed to prove their fitness and commitment before regaining their places in the team.

“It wasn't the most memorable of incidents to occur just ahead of the Asian Champions Trophy but Sandeep and Sardar obliquely helped the Indian team to realise its potential and inner strength at Ordos, China. While we would like to build on these core strengths, Sandeep and Sardar's return will add to the team and give me more options as I prepare the boys for the Olympic qualifiers. As I said, when I was appointed coach I want the best players playing for India but they must play for the right reasons.” Nobbs made it clear that he would not tolerate indiscipline.

“Having given a written assurance to the disciplinary committee that they will not repeat the act and that they will put the country above all else, the two players have unconditionally committed themselves to India's interests. I have made it very clear that I will not tolerate this behaviour from any player, and any player not playing by the team rules will be removed from the team immediately no matter who he is.”

The duo -- expected to join the camp on Thursday -- however, will not have it easy and have to walk the extra mile if they are to make the cut for the Australia tour, the trials for which is scheduled on September 26. “A comeback does not give them any headstart.

They will continue to work harder than the others, prove their fitness and commitment to the team and the game whenever called upon to do so. No doubt, past records state they are fine hockey players. But to me and to the team, they need to prove their credentials yet again if they are to find a place in the Indian national team.”