Bhubaneswar: Hockey legends from Odisha – Dilip Tirkey and Birendra Lakra – were seen enjoying the inaugural match of the FIH Odisha Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday.
Olympian Birendra Lakra was the chief guest.
While last edition’s finalists Belgium defeated Group A opponents South Africa 5-1 in the first match of the day, the Indian squad and defending champions will start their World Cup campaign against France in a Group B match at 8 pm this evening.
Speaking to media ahead of the encounter, India Men Chief Coach Graham Reid gave his thoughts on the match. “It’s always difficult with the first game where you do not have too much knowledge of the opposition. Both teams are in the same boat. So, it’s exciting as well,” he said.
Check the other matches of the day:
Odisha is hosting the Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2021 from November 24 till December 5.
On Tuesday, Dilip Tirkey had joined SAI International students to celebrate and cheer for the championship.
Also Read: Hockey Legend Dillip Tirkey To Be Sports Mentor For SAI International Students
