Bhubaneswar, November 5: The Hockey Association of Odisha has announced the selection of the 18-member Odisha Senior Men’s squad, set to compete in the 14 Hockey India Senior Men National Championship 2024. Odisha will take on Hockey Rajasthan in their campaign opener on November 6.
Odisha is poised to face strong contenders, including Hockey Rajasthan, Hockey Arunachal and Le Puducherry Hockey in the group stage and would begin their campaign with an exciting match against Hockey Rajasthan on November 6 (Wednesday), setting the tone for a thrilling tournament.
The thirteen day championship will take place in Chennai, Tamil Nadu from November 4-16.
The goalkeeping duties will feature – Dilip K SA and Sahil Kumar Nayak, while the defence will see Kerobin Lakra, Amandeep Lakra, Pratap Lakra, Dipsan Tirkey and Neelam Sanjeep Xess, in action.
Ashish Kumar Topno, Sumit Kindo, Mangal Lohar, Prasad Kujur, Amit Kumar Toppo and Sunit Lakra will form the midfield, while the energetic forward line will lead the attack, featuring Rajat Akash Tirkey, Matiyas Dang, Ajay Kumar Ekka, Sudeep Chirmako and Shilanand Lakra, all expected to deliver stellar performances.
“Our boys have undergone rigorous training over the past few months, while blending into each other’s game style. The preparatory matches have played a crucial role in honing their skills and evaluating their readiness. The team feels confident about their performance in the tournament and I am optimistic about our prospects in the championship” said Chief Coach Bijay Kumar Lakra.
