Hockey coach assaulted during players' clash at stadium

A heated discussion between hockey and cricket players at Guru Nanak Stadium in Kapurthala turned violent, leaving a hockey coach injured and hospitalised.

According to coach Deepak Kumar, hockey practice was underway when a hockey ball accidentally struck one of the individuals playing cricket on the same ground. A verbal spat followed, which soon turned aggressive.

"Some people began hurling abuses at hockey players. When I tried to intervene and calm the situation, they attacked me," said Kumar. During the scuffle, he was reportedly knocked unconscious. Hockey players immediately rushed him to the Kapurthala Civil Hospital.

Dr Moin Mohammad at the hospital confirmed that Deepak Kumar’s medico-legal report (MLR) has been prepared and forwarded to the City Police Station for further action. Kumar, a resident of Nakodar Road, has demanded strict police action against those responsible for the attack.

He remains under medical care at the hospital. The police have yet to issue a statement regarding any arrests or investigation progress.

The incident has raised concerns about the lack of proper regulation and supervision at the stadium, where multiple sports activities often overlap.