This is the first time since 2004 that Karnataka hasn’t made the Olympics-bound Indian hockey team. However, one from Karnataka is still set to compete in Tokyo with RV Raghuprasad preparing for his second Olympics. Raghuprasad made his first appearance at the quadrennial extravaganza in 2012 in London and was one of the reserve umpires for the Rio Games.
“I’m very happy to be officiating in my second Olympics having missed out on the Rio Games. What makes it more special is that two of us from India are on the umpires’ panel. With Javed (Shaikh) also in the mix, it augurs well for Indian umpires,” Raghuprasad told The Times of India
Raghuprasad is eager to make the most of his return to the Olympic fold, especially after suffering through a harrowing year-and-a-half due to the pandemic. The umpires in charge of Olympic matches get plenty of match practice at test events and international tournaments in preparation for the games, but the 44-year-old last officiated in an international tournament in January 2020 when he was representing the FIH Pro League in Australia. The action in hockey ceased with the onset of Covid-19. Despite fewer match practices, Raghuprasad believes he will be fresh and sharp for the competition.
Over the past three months, Raghuprasad has attended FIH umpires’ briefings, which he says has improved his preparation for the Games. He also will draw on his experience in officiating 158 matches at the senior level.
Raghuprasad concluded by thanking FIH and Hockey India for their support and adding, “I’m also grateful to Bengaluru Hockey Association, Hockey Karnataka, my friends and family for their support especially in these testing times.”
