Bhubaneswar, May 24: Hockey India on Saturday confirmed the appointment of former Indian men’s hockey team stalwart Birendra Lakra as the new Assistant Coach of the Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team. The move comes as the team intensifies preparations for the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025, which will be hosted in Chennai and Madurai from November 28 to December 10.

Lakra, 35, will join forces with legendary goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who currently serves as the team’s head coach. His vast experience and defensive expertise are expected to significantly bolster the squad’s tactical depth and on-field discipline.

A veteran defender, Lakra made his international debut in 2010 and quickly became one of India’s most dependable players. He was a part of the Indian squads for two Olympic Games — London 2012 and the historic Tokyo 2020 campaign where India clinched a Bronze medal. Throughout his distinguished career, Lakra played pivotal roles in India’s performances at the World Cup, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games.

His transition from player to mentor is seen as a major asset for India’s junior team in their pursuit of global success.

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