ENDGAME: REID STEPS DOWN AS INDIA COACH

THE only surprising thing about the whole thing has been the speed at which it has unravelled. 

- SWAROOP SWAMINATHAN

When Graham Reid refused to commit his short-term future following a routine win over Japan in a classification match last week, the writing was clear. For all intents and purposes, the Australian coach was already on his way out.

"I have signed through till Paris (Olympics in 2024)," he had said after the game. "I have signed a contract. But we'll review I assume at the end of this (World Cup). But the next game is what I'm focussing on." His 'next game' - South Africa as it turned out-turned out to be his final match as chief coach of the men's national hockey team. On Sunday night, he asked the team to assemble for a meeting where he exchanged pleasantries and bid them farewell. He also reminded the players of what they were capable of on the field after he had broken the news to them.

On Monday, Hockey India confirmed that Reid and two assistant coaches - Greg Clark (analytical coach) and Mitchell Pemberton (scientific advisor) - accepted their resignation letters and they will leave their posts after serving a one month notice period. "It is now time for me to step aside and handover the reins to the next management," Reid was quoted as saying by HI. "It has been an honour and privilege to work with the team and Hockey India and I have enjoyed every moment of this epic journey. I wish the team all the very best."