Bhubaneswar: From a modest 6 players in the inaugural Hero Hockey India League (HIL) in 2013, Odisha’s representation has gone up to 16 in the latest edition of the franchise-based event.
The growth in numbers – almost treble — reflects the steady transformation of Odisha into one of Indian hockey’s most reliable production lines.
Back in 2013, Amit Rohidas (Ranchi Rhinos), Stanli Minz (Ranchi Rhinos), Arvind Kujur (Ranchi Rhinos), Sushant Tirkey (Ranchi Rhinos), Suresh Toppo (UP Wizards) and Birendra Lakra (Ranchi Rhinos) were the players from Odisha who featured in HIL-1.
They were exceptions rather than the norm, familiar names in domestic hockey rather being products a statewide system. Sharing the field with global stars was a breakthrough for most of them as they carried forward a legacy rooted in tribal belts, dusty training grounds and an unshakeable love for the sport.
Thirteen years later, in the ongoing Men’s Hero HIL 2025-26, Rohidas is the only common name from Odisha being one of the pillars of the national team’s defence.
Rohidas is representing Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons, along with Anand Lakra, Adrohit Ekka and Sushil Dhanwar. The other Odisha players involved in HIL 2025-26 are – Rohit Kullu, Rosan Kujur, Deepak Pradhan, Dipsan Tirkey, Partap Lakra (Vedanta Kalinga Lancers); Prasant Barla, Sudeep Chirmako (HIL GC); Amandeep Lakra, Shilanand Lakra (Hyderabad Toofans); Anmol Ekka, Nilam Sanjeep Xess (Ranchi Royals); Vivek Lakra (Shrachi Bengal Tigers).
Not just the reliable Rohidas, even other Odisha players are no longer fringe participants. They are spread across franchises, part of starting line-ups and trusted in key roles.
From defenders to midfield engines and attacking options, Odisha’s representation now cuts across positions and team strategies.
The increase from 6 to 16 players has not happened by chance. Over the last decade, Odisha has invested heavily in — grassroots development through district and block-level competitions; high-performance centres, including the state-run academy system; infrastructure, with international-standard venues in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela; consistent exposure, hosting World Cups, Pro League and other international tournaments.
Hockey is no longer just tradition for young players from Sundargarh, Simdega-border villages and tribal belts, it is an aspiration, a viable professional pathway and identity.
Earlier generations relied on standout performances in national championships to get noticed, but today’s players are groomed through structured systems, sports hostels, and elite junior tournaments.
In short, Odisha once contributed individuals, but it now contributes systems.
The crowded Kalinga Hockey Stadium in Bhubaneswar to watch matched in Men’s Hero HIL final leg this season is a testament to the game’s ever-rising popularity and growth in Odisha.
