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The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) will allow the Indian Sikh players to play with their turbans for a two-year test phase. The Basketball Federation of India (BFI) welcomed the move and is hopeful that this temporary move will turn into a permanent one.
"FIBA has allowed players to wear head coverings in its 3-on-3 competitions unless it presents a direct threat to the safety of players on the court. After evaluation of the rule in 2015, it will be decided whether it will become a permanent rule change post the 2016 Olympics and we are sure that this will happen," BFI joint secretary Ashok Rangeen said.
However, many Sikh organisations feel that this ruling has fallen short of their expectations. Rangeen is sure that the International body is taking the right steps. "The newly-elected board of FIBA has addressed this issue in its first meeting and that in itself is a signal that the officials are looking to help out the Sikh, Muslim and orthodox Jew players, who are required a head covering while playing the game," said Rangeen.
Two Sikh players – Amritpal Singh and Amjyot Singh were asked to remove their turbans before a match against Japan at the FIBA Asia Cup in Wuhan, China. There was a massive outroar on the social media with various Sikh organisations asking people to support them using the "#LetSikhsPlay social media campaign". remove their turbans before a match against Japan at the FIBA Asia Cup in Wuhan, China. There was a massive outroar on the social media with various Sikh organisations asking people to support them using the "#LetSikhsPlay social media campaign".
Indian Olympic Association (IOA) vice-president Tarlochan Singh welcomes the new development. "I welcome the new move by FIBA. It comes as a great relief for all the Sikh players, who are playing the game at the top level. I am very sure that FIBA will allow Sikh's to wear the turbans and dastaars even after the testing period," said Singh.
Guess the Lakers players!
