Defender amandeep lakra

Hockey India Junior Men National: Defender Amandeep Lakra is elated about making the cut to represent the nation at the upcoming FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup in Malaysia next month. India will begin their campaign against Korea on December 5 in their Pool C game at 1530 hrs IST.

Sharing his excitement for the prestigious event, he reflected on his journey as a young player and being inspired by Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey, a former India Captain and one of India's greatest defenders. Dilip is also India's most-capped player. "As an aspiring player, I had the opportunity to meet the legendary Dilip Tirkey, who told me that he used to work out for four hours a day," he said, before adding, “He also advised us to be hardworking and focused in our efforts to become good players. His words inspired me, and I began making similar efforts. I started out at Panposh Sports Academy, but after my father was transferred, I had to stop playing."

He also stated that he is impressed by the drag-flicking abilities of current India Captain Harmanpreet Singh. "Watching him train closely here in SAI Bengaluru, I get to learn a lot from him and his on-field focus and style," Amandeep said.