Birendra Lakra joins junior India hockey coaching team

New Delhi

Former Indian hockey defender Birendra Lakra has joined the Indian junior men’s hockey team as assistant coach. The 35-year-old will work closely with PR Sreejesh, the team’s head coach and legendary goalkeeper. This move aims to strengthen the junior team’s defense and improve their overall game as they prepare for the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025, which India will host from November 28 to December 10 in Chennai and Madurai.

Lakra debuted for India in 2010 and became a key defender over a career lasting more than a decade. He played in two Olympic Games — London 2012 and Tokyo 2020, where India won a historic bronze medal. Lakra also won medals in major tournaments such as gold at the 2014 Asian Games, silver at the 2013 Asia Cup, and bronze in the 2018 Asian Games.

He was part of the Indian team that earned medals in the World League Finals and the Asian Champions Trophy, including gold in 2016. Recently, Lakra played for Team Gonasika in the Hockey India League 2024-25, showing his continued fitness and passion for hockey.

Lakra said, “It is an honour to be part of the junior team. I know what it takes to wear the India jersey and look forward to helping the next generation prepare. Working with Sreejesh is exciting, and we aim to build a fearless team for the Junior World Cup.”

Coach PR Sreejesh welcomed Lakra’s addition, saying, “Birendra brings great experience and leadership. Together, we want to prepare a team that will make India proud.”