Did Birendra Lakra Join the Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team as Assistant Coach?

New Delhi, May 24 (NationPress) Hockey India revealed on Saturday that former Indian men’s team stalwart Birendra Lakra has officially come on board as the assistant coach for the Indian junior men’s hockey team. The seasoned 35-year-old defender will collaborate closely with renowned goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who is currently leading the team as head coach.

Lakra’s shift from player to mentor is anticipated to enhance the defensive strategy and overall gameplay of the Indian junior men’s squad, crucial factors as they prepare for the demanding FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025 set to be held at home from November 28 to December 10 in Chennai and Madurai.

A distinguished international player, Lakra debuted for India in 2010, establishing himself as one of the nation's most reliable defenders. He proudly represented India in two Olympic Games – London 2012 and Tokyo 2020, where the team claimed a historic bronze medal. Over his illustrious career spanning more than a decade, Lakra was pivotal in India’s ventures at the World Cup, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and numerous other prestigious tournaments.

His remarkable career milestones include a gold medal at the 2014 Asian Games, a bronze in 2018, a silver at the 2013 Asia Cup, a silver at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, and a silver at the 2018 Champions Trophy. Additionally, he contributed to the Indian team that secured bronze medals in the World League Finals in 2015 (Raipur and Bhubaneswar) and celebrated podium finishes at the Asian Champions Trophy (gold in 2016, silver in 2012).

Recently, Lakra, hailing from Odisha, displayed his fitness and dedication while playing for Team Gonasika in the Hockey India League 2024-25, further emphasizing his unwavering commitment to Indian hockey.

Reflecting on his new appointment, Birendra Lakra stated, “It is a tremendous honor to be part of the Indian Junior Men’s setup during such a crucial time. I understand the significance of donning the India jersey, and I am eager to assist the next generation of players in their preparation for the spotlight. Partnering with someone like Sreejesh, who has been both a teammate and an inspiration, presents an exciting challenge. We are dedicated to developing a fearless and well-prepared team for the upcoming tournaments, particularly the highly-anticipated Junior World Cup later this year.”

PR Sreejesh, the head coach of the Indian junior men’s team, expressed his enthusiasm regarding Lakra’s addition, stating, “Having Birendra join our ranks is a tremendous advantage. He brings a vast wealth of experience, tactical acumen, and composed leadership that will be invaluable to these young athletes. We have shared numerous battles on the field, and I am confident we will bring the same synergy and dedication to this new chapter as coaches. Together, we aim to nurture a squad that can make the nation proud.”