Amit Rohidas regrets missing India’s Paris Olympics hockey semi-final

New Delhi: Amit Rohidas still can’t get over the regret of missing out on India’s hockey semi-final at Paris Olympics.

The experienced first-rusher was shown the red card during India’s win over Britain in the quarter-final. Due to his eviction, India played with 10 men for 42 minutes but emerged with a win.

Due to his suspension, Rohidas had to sit out their semi-final loss to Germany as India conceded a late goal to go down 2-3 to Germany.

“I really missed the semi-final because of the one-match suspension. It was such a crucial match,” the 31-year-old defender told PTI.

“Pura country aur mere teammates mere saath the… Kabhi team se emotionally bahar hone nahin diya. Mera focus bas aagli match pe thaa (I knew the whole country and my teammates Emotionally they never ever let me feel that I’m an outsider or sidelined. I was fully focused on our next match.”

Rohidas’ offence was upgraded to a red card after a video referral, after his stick swung and struck British forward Will Calnan in the face in the 17th minute.

“I don’t know what people are saying outside, but I know as a player what I’ve gone through. It wasn’t intentional, and the referee’s decision is part of the game,” he said.

Veteran keeper PR Sreejesh made a flurry of saves to help India win in shootout aginst Britain.

“It gave me immense pride to win over our opponents in the shoot-out despite being reduced to 10 players. We showed our countrymen how we can fight despite the numerical disadvantage. It was not just once but twice we made records — beating Australia after 52 years, and winning with 10 players,” he added.

Rohidas was glad that India could return with a medal despite losing in the semis.

“Maybe the colour of the medal would have changed but it’s all destined you cannot change anything. Luckily we are not returning empty-handed. This is country’s medal.”

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 Veteran defender Amit Rohidas had to sit out their semi-final loss to Germany due to suspension as India conceded a late goal to go down 2-3 to Germany.  Other Sports Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today