Sanjay Rana Thrilled to Represent Kalinga Lancers, the Current Champions in HIL
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New Delhi, Dec 20 (NationPress) Defender Sanjay Rana from India and the Kalinga Lancers is filled with excitement as he prepares to play for the titleholders in the forthcoming Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25 season, which kicks off on December 28.
Sanjay, who has advanced through the junior ranks, has become a regular presence in the Indian men's hockey team in recent years. The year 2024 has marked a significant milestone for the defender, as he achieved the pinnacle of his career - securing a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, alongside clinching the championship title at the Asian Champions Trophy held in China. He was also a member of the squad that brought home the gold medal from the Asian Games 2022 in Hangzhou, China.
At just 23 years old, Sanjay first experienced victory with a silver medal at the Youth Olympic Games 2018 and has established himself as a formidable force within India's strong defensive lineup, which includes captain Harmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, and Jarmanpreet Singh.
"I am extremely excited to embark on my first HIL season with the defending champions Kalinga Lancers. The team boasts a fantastic mix of Indian, international, and junior talent," Sanjay shared with IANS during the Kalinga Lancers' jersey launch event in Bhagwan Nagar on Thursday.
Reflecting on the momentous occasion of winning the second consecutive Olympic bronze medal in Paris this year, Sanjay described it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience that could only be rivaled by winning another medal at future Olympics.
"This was my first Olympics, and as a junior player, I learned immensely from the senior members of the team. The quarter-final match against Great Britain was particularly challenging with one player down, yet our team performed excellently to secure victory. Winning an Olympic medal for my country was a dream come true, and that joy will remain unmatched until we achieve another medal," he remarked.
When discussing his preparations for the HIL, Sanjay elaborated on the rigorous training he undertook with the Indian team after their home matches against New Zealand in late October.
"Following the New Zealand series, we held a camp and also traveled to Belgium and the Netherlands, returning on December 7. It was a valuable experience with high-intensity matches, and I feel fully fit and eager to compete," the 23-year-old expressed.
"Post-HIL, I will begin my preparations for the FIH Pro League and Asia Cup next year," Sanjay stated regarding his aspirations for the upcoming 2025 season.
