~ Describing the moment as a ‘big achievement’, Amandeep vows to give his all for the Indian team ~
Rourkela, 14th February 2026: Amandeep Lakra’s steady rise through the ranks reached a proud milestone as the young defender earned his senior international debut for India in the FIH Hockey Pro League 2025-26 in the match against Belgium on Saturday, marking the culmination of a journey that began over a decade ago at the Panposh Sports Hostel in Rourkela.
For Amandeep, who hails from Odisha, wearing the Indian jersey at the senior level was a significant moment — one built on years of discipline, patience and hard work.
“It is a big achievement for me,” Amandeep said. “I am determined to give 100 percent for my team. I will play according to the coach’s planning and structure and give my best in every moment.”
From Father’s Guidance to the National Stage
Amandeep’s hockey journey began in 2013 when he joined the Panposh Sports Hostel in Rourkela, where his father serves as a coach at the state-run academy. While he did not initially plan a professional career in hockey, his father’s mentorship gradually shaped his path.
“My father has taught me everything from the beginning. He still guides me. If I am able to drag flick today, it is because of him,” he shared.
After progressing through the grassroots system, Amandeep entered the Junior National Camp following the Kovilpatti Nationals in 2022 and represented India at the junior level, including the 2022 and 2023 editions of Sultan of Johor Cup, Junior Asia Cup 2023, and Junior World Cup 2023. Following the completion of his junior stint, he worked intensely to transition into the senior setup.
“I knew that when I get a chance in the senior team, I have to prove myself. So I worked very hard during that phase.”
Evolution into a Modern Defender
Interestingly, Amandeep began his career as a right half before transitioning into defence as he developed his drag-flicking abilities. The positional switch allowed him to read the game better and contribute more effectively during penalty corners.
“In defence, you get more time to see the game — how to control the speed and how to take the ball out under pressure,” he explained.
He idolises former India captain Dilip Tirkey and credits a meeting with the legend as a source of motivation. “He told me that playing for the national team is not easy and that hard work is the only way. Since then, my thinking has been to keep working hard.”
HIL Breakthrough Paved the Way
Amandeep’s selection to the senior squad followed a standout campaign in the Hero Hockey India League 2025-26, where he was named Player of the Tournament while playing for Hyderabad Toofans. Viewing Hero HIL as a major platform, he focused on making every opportunity count.
“Hero HIL is a very big platform. Many senior team coaches watch closely. My focus was simple — if I get a chance, I have to contribute for my team.”
The tournament sharpened his defensive awareness, particularly in managing pressure situations, improving distribution from the back, and mastering 1v1 defensive duels.
He also benefitted from the advice of senior Indian and international teammates, who encouraged him to keep his game simple and composed.
Staying Grounded on the Big Stage
Despite achieving his first senior cap, Amandeep remains composed about the milestone. “I haven’t thought too much about my debut. If I think too much, I will get pressured. Whenever I step on the field, I just think about giving 100 percent.”
He also expressed particular excitement about competing against top teams like Belgium, acknowledging the experience and quality they bring.
With the FIH Pro League serving as a stepping stone toward major upcoming tournaments, including the 2026 World Cup and Asian Games, Amandeep’s focus remains firmly on contributing to the team’s success.
“Everyone who plays for India dreams of bringing Gold at the Olympics. It is very tough, but hard work is important.”
From the training grounds of Panposh to representing India on the international stage, Amandeep Lakra’s debut stands as a testament to perseverance, simplicity, and belief in the process — the foundations of a defender ready to grow in Indian hockey’s next chapter.
