Bhubaneswar: Three skilled hockey players from Odisha—Amit Rohidas, Shilanand Lakra, and Nilam Sanjeep Xess—have been selected for the 24-member Indian Men’s Hockey Team. They are set to participate in a four-match tour of Australia, which will take place in Perth from August 15th to August 21st. This tour is a crucial part of the team’s preparations for the upcoming Asia Cup, a World Cup Qualifier, to be held in Rajgir, Bihar, starting on August 29th.
The Department of Sports and Youth Services, Government of Odisha, has extended its heartfelt congratulations to the players, acknowledging their talent and hard work. Their selection highlights the state’s significant contribution to the national team.
Here is a closer look at the Odia players:
- Amit Rohidas: The veteran defender and drag-flick specialist has been a consistent presence in the national team. Hailing from Saunamara village in the Sundergarh district, Rohidas is known for his defensive prowess and leadership on the field. He has been a part of several major victories for India, including the bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, the gold medal at the 2022 Asian Games, and another bronze at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
- Shilanand Lakra: A dynamic forward, Lakra’s selection is a testament to his strong performances. He made his national debut in 2018 and has since been a key player in the forward line. Lakra, also from Sundergarh, has represented India in various international tournaments, including the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.
- Nilam Sanjeep Xess: Another defender from Sundergarh, Xess has been a part of the national setup for several years. He made his senior team debut at the 2016 South Asian Games and has since played a vital role in the defensive unit. Xess has experience leading junior teams and has also been a part of the Indian teams that won medals at the Asia Cup and Asian Champions Trophy.
The Indian team, led by Captain Harmanpreet Singh, will use this tour to improve physical conditioning, test new combinations, and gain momentum ahead of the important home competition. The matches against Australia will be a challenging yet valuable experience for the squad, particularly for the younger players.