New Delhi: Odisha’s hockey player Shilanand Lakra, who represented India in the Sultan Johor Cup held in Johor Baru, will make his debut at the prestigious 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, scheduled from March 3, in Ipoh, Malaysia.
Among other hockey stars from Odisha, Dipsan Tirkey, Amit Rohidas and Nilam Sanjeep Xess feature in the 18-member squad. Sardar Singh has been recalled as skipper in the team.
“With youngsters who have done well in New Zealand as well as few more getting the right international exposure, it will only help us create a bigger group. Playing top teams in their first tournament will be challenging but this is also an opportunity for the seniors to help the youngsters adjust to this level,” said Sjoerd Marijne, coach of the men’s team.
Sardar Singh will play in the midfield along with SK Uthappa, Sumit, Nilakanta Sharma and Simranjeet Singh. India’s defence will be guarded by Varun Kumar, Amit Rohidas, Dipsan Tirkey, Surender Kumar and new comers Mandeep Mor and Nilam Sanjeep Xess while the Indian goalpost will be kept by Suraj Karkera and Krishan Pathak.
The forward line will feature Gurjant Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Talwinder Singh and debut players Sumit Kumar (Junior) and Shilanand Lakra.
Besides India, the other teams participating in the tournament include Australia, Argentina, England, Ireland and hosts Malaysia.
