World Cup 2018

Hockey World Cup 2018: Belgium withdraws Dohmen from squad over health scare

Former Belgium captain John-John Dohmen has been withdrawn from the squad a day before its final Hockey World Cup 2018 Pool C game against South Africa.

Uthra Ganesan
Bhubaneswar 07 December, 2018 15:55 IST

Belgium captain John-John Dohmen was named Player of the Year   -  Getty Images

Uthra Ganesan
Bhubaneswar 07 December, 2018 15:55 IST

After the experienced Emmanuel Stockbroekx, Belgium has been hit by another withdrawal a day before its final World Cup Pool C game against South Africa. Former captain John-John Dohmen, the most experienced with 368 international caps, has been withdrawn from the squad.

Dohmen, a former FIH Player of the Year, had contracted bronchitis before arriving in India. Different tests in the last days have forced the team management to take him off the roster. The Belgian medical staff, in consultation with respiratory specialists in Belgium, has decided to send him back for more tests.

Dohmen would be replaced by midfielder Augustin Meurmans, a 21-year old with 39 matches under his belt. Meurmans has already arrived in the city and joined the team.