Bhubaneswar: The Hockey Association of Odisha has announced the selection of the 18-member Odisha Junior Men’s Hockey team, set to compete in the 14th Hockey India Junior Men National Championship, 2024 to be held in Jalandhar.
The championship will take place from September 9 to 19, showcasing some of the finest hockey talent in the region.
The Odisha team is poised to face strong contenders, including Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, Assam Hockey and Hockey Arunachal. The squad will begin their campaign with an exciting match against Assam Hockey, setting the tone for a thrilling tournament.
The goalkeeping duties will be handled by Vivek Lakra and Abhishek Yadav, while the defence line-up comprises Wilson Xaxa, Sanjit Tirkey, Abhisek Topno, Sandeep Ekka, Jasman Munda and Pradip Mandal, is prepared to counter any offensive challenges.
The midfield, often considered the backbone of the team, will be controlled by the dynamic players Adrohit Ekka, Harun Minz, Arbin Toppo, Premdyal Giri and Rohit Kullu. The forward line, known for its energy and skill, includes Pratap Toppo, Karan Lakra, Deepak Pradhan, Devonath Nanwar and Satish Munda, all expected to deliver stellar performances.
Chief Coach BJ. Kariappa expressed his confidence in the team, stating, “Our players have put in tremendous effort, developing a deep understanding of each other’s game. The practice matches have whetted their skills and tested their promptness. The team is both mentally and physically strong, and I am confident about our chances in the championship.”
The Hockey Association of Odisha extends its heartfelt wishes to the team, confident that they will excel and bring pride to the state.
Odisha’s Junior Men’s Hockey Team
Goalkeepers
1.Vivek Lakra
2. Abhishek Yadav
Defenders:
3. Xaxa Wilson
4. Abhishek Topno
5. Jasman Munda
6. Sandeep Ekka
7. Pradip Mandal
8. Sanjit Tirkey
Midfielders:
9. Adrohit Ekka
10. Harun Minz
11. Premdyal Giri
12. Rohit Kullu
13. Arbin Toppo
Forwards:
14. Karan Lakra
15. Deepak Pradhan
16. Deonath Nanwar
17. Pratap Toppo
18. Satish Munda
