Several players contributed handsomely in Indian men’s bronze medal-winning effort in hockey at the Tokyo Olympics. But one man stood taller than others – goalkeeper PR Sreejesh.
Brushing aside the nightmarish 1-7 mauling at the hands of Australia in the second pool match, Sreejesh stood like a rock under the bar as India notched up victories over Spain, Argentina, Japan and Britain before taming Germany 5-4 to end the country’s 41-year wait for a hockey medal.
His lion-hearted performance was obviously noticed as rewards of different types are coming thick and fast.
Dr Shamsheer Vayalil, Chairman and MD of UAE-based VPS Healthcare, announced an award of Rs 1 crore for Sreejesh.
“Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh played a crucial role in helping the Indian hockey team secure bronze at the Olympics. We acknowledge his contributions and are pleased to announce a cash reward of Rs. 1 crore for him. @16Sreejesh,” tweeted Vayalil.
Sreejesh’s home state, though, has so far disappointed as far as acknowledging his stellar show is concerned.
In a strange announcement, the Kerala government’s Handloom department said a dhoti and shirt worth approximately Rs 1,000 will be presented to Sreejesh as token of appreciation for winning the bronze medal.
There has been no announcement from Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan yet, unlike Punjab CM Amarinder Singh and Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar who have promised decent cash prizes for medal winners from their respective states.
Sreejesh, along with his teammates, will be receiving cash prizes from other organizations like BCCI and Byju’s. The cricket board will give the Indian team Rs 1.25 crore while the edtech company has promised to present Rs 1 crore.
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