Gill promises 'fair deal' but only after the World Cup

After negotiation collapsed in Pune, Gill said players should return to practice immediately.
“In this situation, I am of the view that an immediate long term solution is not possible. The duty of all players is to continue training and be ready to play the first match of the World Cup on February 28 against Pakistan,” Gill said in a statement.
“The new hockey stadium, which I inspected today, will be the best Hockey Stadium in the world. The players must train, and put in their best, and I expect good results,” said the Sports Minister.

“After the tournament, the Ministry of Sports will be in dialogue with the new elected management of Hockey India to find satisfactory solutions to all issues, raised by the players,” he promised.

“I wish to appeal to the players to immediately join training and continue so with full heart till the tournament and focus to win it. I am clear that after the tournament I will do everything possible, to give the players a fair deal,” Gill added.
Gill was of the view that a long-term solution is not possible right now as HI was an adhoc body and that the issue can be resolved once there is an elected body.
‘Shocking’

Meanwhile, International Hockey Federation (FIH) vice president Antonio von Ondarza expressed shock after the talks between striking players and HI failed.
Terming the development as sad with just six weeks left for the World Cup, Ondarza said the players should concentrate on training instead of indulging in pressure tactics. “I heard allegation from both sides. It’s really a very sad story. If you come for negotiations and refuse to move, it’s not going to succeed,” Ondarza said.