Bhubaneswar: It’s a dream for every player to represent their country in the biggest stage at home. And Odisha players Amit Rohidas and Birendra Lakra’s joys knew no bounds when their names were announced in the 18-member India squad in the men’s hockey World Cup which the city is hosting from November 28.
“This is my first World Cup and being at home I am very excited to be honest. I am happier that Birendra bhai is also in the team and it feels really great,” Amit said during the media interaction in a city hotel, Saturday.
Birendra suffered a leg injury in the Jakarta Asian Games and had been in rehab since then while Amit was omitted from the Asian Champions Trophy when India were declared joint winners along with arch rivals Pakistan.
“It was more difficult for me because I was injured after the Asian Games, but I am really thankful to the management for keeping faith in me and I will try to give my best to repay them,” Birendra said.
Speaking about the team combination Birendra said, “The team is pretty balanced with a blend of both seniors and juniors. The fitness level of the team is also good and I don’t think the exclusion of some senior players (SV Sunil and Rupinder Pal Singh) will be a problem.”
The crowd has always played as a 12th man for the Indian team at the Kalinga Stadium and this time also it won’t be any different. “The crowd has always supported us every time in a big way and it will be a huge factor being at home as they will provide the whole team a major confidence boost,” Birendra stated.
However, coach Harendra Singh admitted that they will be missing the services of experienced SV Sunil who was left out because of the injury he received during training. “Sunil was very much into consideration and we will definitely miss him,” Harendra said.