How Did Pratap Lakra Overcome Challenges to Join the Senior Hockey National Camp?

New Delhi, May 5 (NationPress) Pratap Lakra has faced a non-linear journey to reach the Indian senior men’s hockey camp. The 24-year-old defender from Sundargarh, Odisha—a region renowned for its hockey talent—has crafted an inspiring comeback narrative after his career faced setbacks during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Lakra stands out as one of the two newcomers in the current senior national camp, showcasing his determination and revival. His selection is a result of an impressive performance at the 15th Hockey India Senior Men’s National Championship 2025, where he contributed significantly to Madhya Pradesh's Silver-medal achievement.

“Returning after the lockdown was quite challenging,” Lakra recalls. “I lost my fitness and rhythm. At times, it felt like all my hard work was fading away. Nevertheless, I persevered—training diligently and consistently showing up.”

His journey began like many young boys in Sundargarh—gripping a hockey stick and playing barefoot in local fields. His father, a village hockey player, and his elder sister Preeti, a former state representative, instilled a deep passion for the sport in him. “We come from a family of farmers, yet hockey is woven into our heritage,” Lakra explains. “My sister was the first to join a sports hostel, motivating me to take the sport more seriously.”

Financial hardships in his early life didn’t hold him back; instead, they motivated him. “There was a time when I lacked proper shoes for playing. A compassionate official from Hockey Gangpur Odisha extended help, and such gestures kept me going,” he recalls.

His early hockey career showed tremendous potential. Starting at age 9 in his village, he joined the prestigious Panposh Sports Hostel in Rourkela in 2011. He quickly climbed the ranks, securing a place on the Indian junior team and participating in events like the Sultan of Johor Cup (2017, 2019) and the 8 Nations Invitational in Spain (2019).

However, when the pandemic hit in 2020, like many athletes, Lakra found himself lost. He was dropped from the junior national camp, his fitness deteriorated, and opportunities vanished. “It was a challenging period,” he admits. “I often trained solo on the Railway team’s turf, running and refining my game without clarity on what lay ahead.”

His resilience bore fruit as he fought his way back into competitive hockey through Railways tournaments, ultimately securing a job with South Central Railway in 2018 under the sports quota. This provided him the stability needed to continue training and competing. By 2024, he was back in action, representing Odisha at the Senior Nationals, later transitioning to Madhya Pradesh in 2025—a crucial move that highlighted his defensive prowess and reliability.

His recent showcase with Madhya Pradesh at the Senior Nationals, including a grueling final against Punjab, led to his much-anticipated call-up to the senior national camp. “It was a tough tournament. Competing against top Indian players was enlightening. The final imparted valuable lessons about teamwork and performing under pressure,” he states.

Lakra, who plays both in defense and as a drag-flicker, idolizes Indian legends Birendra Lakra and Rupinder Pal Singh. “I chose defense after watching Birendra Lakra—his ability to control the game from the back inspired me. As for drag-flicking, Rupinder Pal Singh’s technique and precision have taught me immensely,” he shares.

Additionally, Pratap gained insights while with the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers in the Hockey India League 2024-25. While his playing time was limited, he describes it as an enlightening experience. “Being surrounded by international and senior players altered my understanding of the game. I remained focused and aimed to seize every opportunity,” he says.

Now, as he participates in the senior national camp, Lakra stays grounded. “My ambition is to enhance my fitness and skills. I want to maintain discipline, work hard, and secure a spot in the Indian team. My ultimate aspiration is to win an Olympic gold for my country,” he asserts.

The unwavering support from his family remains a cornerstone of his journey. His sister Preeti, his early mentor, consistently advises him to stay humble. “She reminded me, ‘Being selected for the camp is merely the start. Keep striving if you wish to don the Indian jersey,” he concludes.