Bhubaneswar, July 12: The Hockey Association of Odisha has announced the selection of the 18-member Odisha Junior Men’s Hockey team, set to compete in the 2nd Hockey India Junior Men’s East Zone Championship 2024, to be held in Kolkata. The championship will take place from the 14-21 July, showcasing some of the finest hockey talent in the region.
The Odisha team is poised to face strong contenders, including Assam Hockey, Hockey Bengal, Manipur Hockey, Hockey Jharkhand, and Hockey Bihar. The squad will begin their campaign with an exciting match against Assam Hockey, setting the tone for a thrilling tournament.
The goalkeeping duties will be handled by Vivek Lakra and Abhishek Yadav, while the defence line-up comprises Ankit Jojo, Abhishek Toppo, Nitesh Minz, Sandeep Ekka, Pradip Mandal, and Sujit Tirkey, is prepared to counter any offensive challenges.
The midfield, often considered the backbone of the team, will be controlled by the dynamic players Adrohit Ekka, Sachin Kindo, Premdyal Giri, Rohit Kullu, and Suresh Sharma. The forward line, known for its energy and skill, includes Karan Lakra, Deepak Pradhan, Devonath Nanwar, Aryan Xess, and Sunil Lakra, all expected to deliver stellar performances.
Chief Coach Lakshminarayana Pitti expressed his confidence in the team, stating, “Our players have undergone rigorous training, developing a strong understanding of each other’s gameplay. The preparatory matches have been crucial in refining their skills and assessing their readiness. The team is confident, both physically and mentally, and I am optimistic about our prospects in the championship.”
The Hockey Association of Odisha extends heartfelt wishes to the team, confident that they will excel and bring pride to the state.
Odisha’s Junior Men’s Hockey Team
Goalkeepers:
1. Vivek Lakra
2. Abhishek Yadav
Defenders:
3. Ankit Jojo
4. Abhishek Toppo
5. Nitesh Minz
6. Sandeep Ekka
7. Pradip Mandal
8. Sujit Tirkey
Midfielders:
9. Adrohit Ekka
10. Sachin Kindo
11. Premdyal Giri
12. Rohit Kullu
13. Suresh Sharma
Forwards:
14. Karan Lakra
15. Deepak Pradhan
16. Devonath Nanwar
17. Aryan Xess
18. Sunil lakra
