New Delhi: Former Indian defender Birendra Lakra has been appointed as the assistant coach of the junior men’s hockey team ahead of the Junior Hockey World Cup later this year, Hockey India confirmed on Saturday. The 35-year-old former player will work closely with legendary goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who is currently working as the coach of the Indian team.
On his appointment as the assistant coach of the side, Lakra said that it is a great honour to be part of the setup at such a crucial time and he is looking forward to his role. He also lauded Sreejesh saying that it will be exciting to work with him as he has been an inspiration and a teammate in the past.
Lakra praises Sreejesh
‘It is a great honour to be part of the Indian Junior Men’s setup at such an important time. I know what it takes to wear the India jersey, and now I look forward to helping the next generation of players prepare for the big stage,’ Lakra said in a release.
‘Working alongside someone like Sreejesh, who has been a teammate and an inspiration, is an exciting challenge. We are committed to building a fearless and well-prepared team for the tournaments ahead, especially the all-important Junior World Cup later this year,’ he added.
The former Indian player is expected to add strength to the team’s defensive structure as the side gears up for the men’s World Cup scheduled to be held from November 28 to December 10 in Chennai and Madurai.
‘Having Birendra join us is a massive boost. He brings a wealth of experience, tactical intelligence, and calm leadership that will be invaluable to these young players,’ Sreejesh said.
Lakra made his debut for India back in 2010 and went on to become one of the team’s most consistent and reliable defenders. He represented the country in two Olympic Games – London 2012 and Tokyo 2020, where India clinched a historic bronze medal.
On his appointment as the assistant coach of the side, Birendra Lakra said that it is a great honour to be part of the setup at such a crucial time and he is looking forward to his role. Other Sports Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
