Birendra Lakra to replace injured Varun for Hockey Olympic Qualifiers

Bhubaneswar: Ahead of the Indian Men’s Team crucial FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers matches against Russia on November 1-2 at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium here, Hockey India announced the replacement of defender-drag-flicker Varun Kumar who sustained an injury on his shoulder and right bicep.  

He will now be replaced by experienced defender Birender Lakra.

“Varun Kumar injured his shoulder and right bicep on Monday while training. He has been receiving treatment since then but unfortunately, it has not shown enough signs of improvement,” explained Graham Reid, Chief Coach, Indian Men’s Hockey Team.

He further added, “Following the advice from our medical staff who have suggested that he requires rest for a few weeks before he returns to action. Hence, we have decided to replace him with Birendra Lakra, a class defender with over 170 International Caps. He is very experienced and knows well the conditions in Bhubaneswar and is ready to play.”

Indian Men’s Team will take on Russia at the Kalinga Stadium on November 1-2 while the Indian Women’s Team will take on USA.