/> This has nothing to do with the release of Shah Rukh Khan's hockey film.

Suniel Shetty has signed up as the official brand ambassador for the game of hockey in the country.

The hush-hush announcement to be made on August 17 in Chandigarh, is expected to give the neglected game a big boost.

Says Suniel."I don't know where you heard this. But it's true. I received a letter from the hockey federation. I suppose they relate me to fitness, wellness and sporty activities. And they hope to revive hockey as a national game."

Suniel candidly admits he isn't an avid hockey player."I'm a cricket man. But I've played hockey in fits and starts. I'm doing this because of my love for all sports. And I'm accepting no money. It's just such an honour to be associated with the game of hockey."

Suniel dismisses the release of Shah Rukh's hockey film in the same week when Suniel is chosen as the game's official ambassador, as a co-incidence."I've been chosen purely for my love for the sport. And although I turned 46 this week the hockey federation feels age is no bar for any game. It's always about phyical fitness.

India has always been numero uno in hockey. Sadly it's becoming neglected. They want my help in bringing it back as the National sport."