Actor Shetty to mentor Karnataka Lions

The franchise has been named as ‘Karnataka Lions’. The action hero straightway exuded confidence that the multi city-based league would see the light of the day despite the long-standing dispute between Hockey India and Indian Hockey Federation.

“Everything is being taken care of as the WSH management is looking into the issue and the organisers are in constant touch with the authorities concerned. I hope that this issue will be a minor one and we overcome all the glitches. I hope for the success of the tournament,” Shetty told PTI.

“All are looking forward to playing in this tournament. The management is doing its bit and we are hoping for positive results. Everyone is tirelessly working on resolving the issue. We hope that this stand-off comes to an end soon,” added Shetty.

WSH is a lucrative league jointly organised by the IHF and Nimbus Sports. IHF is not affiliated to the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and the world body recognises HI as the national federation for the sport in India.FIH had also threatened to bar players from national selection if they take part in WSH. The team has been acquired by Sporting Ace, a part of the Zentrum Group, which is a global player in the field of energy, chemicals, education, sports, information technology, consulting, media and outsourcing.

Shetty, who has been actively associated with organising several sporting and celebrity events in India, said the sport needs better infrastructure and its due share of promotion.
“Hockey needs infrastructure in the country, players need better salary and exposure, and this is what I believe WSH will do, promising an alternate career to kids who do not make it to the national team necessarily,” Shetty said.