Three Hockey players from Odisha in Team India for Hockey World League Final

Bhubaneswar: Three defenders from Odisha, experienced Birendra Lakra along with Dipsan Tirkey and Amit Rohidas, have been selected in the 18-member Indian men's hockey team for the Odisha Men's Hockey World League Final. The biggest tournament of the year will be played at the Kalinga Stadium in the state capital from December 1.

This will be the first such occasion when three players from the state will wear the Indian colours to play an international tournament in front of their home crowd in Bhubaneswar.

Birendra Lakra returned to the team after recovering from an injury while youngster Dipsan Tirkey and Amit Rohidas continue to maintain their place in the squad for the prestigious tournament after performing really well in the Men's Asia Cup where the Men in Blue were crowned champions earlier this year.

Speaking exclusively to odishatv.in, Dipsan Tirkey siad, "I am really delighted to be in the Indian team for the tournament which will be played at my home stadium. I have already played for Kalinga Lancers here but for Team India this is the first time I will play a tournament in Odisha. I am expecting wonderful support from the crowd as well."

Manpreet Singh will lead the Indian team with Chinglensana Singh as his deputy. Akash Chikte and Suraj Karkera are the two goalkeepers in the Sjoerd Marijne-coached side. Former skipper Sardar Singh didn't find a place in the Indian squad for the upcoming world event.

The Indian team is placed in Pool B along with Australia, England and Germany. They will be meeting the defending champions Australia in their first game on the opening evening.