IHF 'incentive' for Olympic qualification

All the 24 members of the Indian hockey contingent will get an added "incentive" of 100 Euros (about Rs 6,000) each if the team qualifies for the 2004 Athens Olympics.

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Team manager K Krishnamurthy said: "At the team meeting yesterday [Sunday], I announced on behalf of the Indian Hockey Federation that each member of the contingent will receive 100 Euros if India beats New Zealand and Canada tomorrow [on Tuesday] and confirms qualification to the Athens Olympics."

He said that the 100 Euros is to be looked as an "incentive" and is in addition to the daily allowance of US $30 that each member is entitled to.

"All the members of the contingent have been paid US $540 each in advance as part of their allowances for 18 days. That apart, all the incidental expenses of the players are being met by the IHF. We have spared no effort in ensuring that the players receive the best treatment," he said.

India beat New Zealand 2-0 today to move to second spot in Pool B behind Pakistan. A win against Canada tomorrow will put India in the semifinals and confirm their qualification for the Athens Games.