India captain who quit for studies

Dubai: He was India's most promising player and went on to captain the Indian hockey team. But on January 15, 2008, he stunned the sport by announcing his retirement at the age of 27 to pursue his studies.

Viren Rasquinha, the country's best midfielder was here to play in the Seiko Invitation Cup tournament. He displayed his scintillating form and enormous talent to guide Friends United Sports Club from Mumbai to victory at the Dubal ground.

How could he even think of quitting when he still had a promising career ahead of him?

"I always wanted to retire at my peak. Moreover, I had decided to do my Masters in Business Administration (MBA) and hence got into the Indian School of Business in Hyderabad, one of India's best business schools. Since the course begins in April, I felt this was the most appropriate time to quit hockey," remarked the skipper.

Was it that he decided to quit hockey because, unlike cricket, his sport did not really help him earn a living. "I've enjoyed playing hockey and it has given me an identity. Today people recognise me when I walk on the road, but I feel it is important to pursue my studies. To earn a master's degree is very important for my own self respect and motivation and also to progress in life."

Rasquinha strongly believes that sportsmen should never neglect their studies. "Education does play a big role and it will stand by you for the rest of your life. It makes you intelligent and hockey, I believe, is a very intelligent game."

Highs and lows

Little surprise the statement came from someone who was 13th in the Grade 10 (SSC) merit list in Mumbai and a first class Bachelor's degree holder in Commerce, despite being busy playing international hockey.

"In hockey one has to think on his feet. It pushes you to the limit both physically and mentally. One has to be intelligent to know when is the right time to pass, to dribble and also when to fall back into defence and when to use the scoop ball. Education is very important and no-one should neglect their studies," he stressed.

Any regrets so far?

"I enjoyed my career thoroughly. It was a special feeling when I stepped on to the field for first time in the Athens Olympics and also when I captained India for the first time in the India-Pakistan Test at Chandigarh in front of 40,000 people. I've had my highs and lows, but overall it was an enjoyable career."