New Delhi Six players from Odisha – Birendra Lakra, Amit Rohidas, Dipsan Tirkey, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Shilanand Lakra and Amon Mirash Tirkey – were Sunday named among the 60 players for the senior men’s national camp announced by Hockey India (HI) starting at Bangalore April 8.
While, Birendra and Amit are regulars in the national squad, this is the first time for the Nilam and Amon in the senior camp. Out-of-favour Dipsan is also making a comeback at the senior camp after almost a year.
The selectors have also named India’s 2016 Junior World Cup-winning side captain Harjeet Singh in the camp. The players have been selected based on their performances at the recently held Senior Men’s National Championship (Division A) as well as their recent international showings.
However, the list will be further pruned down to 33 core probables after a selection trial April 20. ““While most of the senior players from the previous 33 core probable group have made it to this list, they are aware that they need to establish their potential during the trials to ensure they are picked in the final list of players, who will stay on till May 5,” said HI’s High Performance Director, David John.
“No one’s place in the team is guaranteed and this group is highly competitive with some fresh young talent who are expected to add depth to our existing pool of players,” he added.