PR Sreejesh, the captain of the Indian hockey team, was charged for excess baggage by airline carrier Air Asia on his return from Malaysia. Sreejesh was one of the star performers as the Indian hockey team triumphed in Asian Champions Trophy. However, he was angered by the airline carrier’s actions and took to social media to express his disappointment.
The 28-year-old goalkeeper, who ensured India made it to the final, was asked to pay Rs. 1,500 extra for excess baggage that included his sports equipment. As goalkeepers’ equipment is expected to be heavier than the outfield players, Air Asia’s imposition on the Indian custodian could objectively be considered unfair.
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The incident left Sreejesh distraught as he expressed his feelings on Twitter and even posted an image of the penalty receipt.
The airline, later on, replied to Sreejesh that they would look into the matter and get in touch with him at the soonest.
Goalkeepers usually have heavier gear than the outfield players. They have to carry a helmet, thick pads, upper body protection and gloves in addition to the hockey sticks and shin guards. Keeping that in mind, the penalty imposed on Sreejesh seems ridiculous.
Also read: Following Asian Champions Trophy triumph, skipper PR Sreejesh unsure for Australia tour
Although Sreejesh missed the final of the Asian Champions Trophy, his heroics in the semi-final against South Korea helped India secure a berth in the decider. The semi-final was tied 2-2 at the end of regulation time and the game had gone into the penalty shootout. As Lee Dae-Yeol stepped up to take the deciding penalty, Sreejesh made a terrific save but got injured in the process.
The Indian team went on to overcome neighbouring Pakistan in a tightly contested final, winning 3-2. In the process, they reclaimed the trophy from Pakistan, who were the two-time defending champions. India had won the 2011 edition, which was the tournament that highlighted the rise of Sreejesh, who saved two penalties in the final.
On Monday night, Sreejesh, along with Nikkin Thimmaiah, landed at the Bengaluru airport around 11.45 pm from Kuala Lumpur. The Indian captain dedicated the victory to the Indian soldiers who were martyred in the Uri attack, and their families. He went on to add that India's win was a Diwali gift for those who gave their lives in order to safeguard the nation.
