Vivek Lakra's Inspiring Journey from Borrowed Kits to Hockey India League Star

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Vivek Lakra, a young goalkeeper from Sundergarh, Odisha, has become the most expensive junior player in the upcoming Hockey India League. Shrachi Bengal Warriors acquired him for Rs 23 lakh.

Despite financial challenges, Lakra's journey from borrowing kits to this achievement is remarkable. His father, a hockey enthusiast, introduced him to the sport, although it wasn't Lakra's first choice.

Initially more interested in football and cricket, Lakra was guided into hockey by his father. "Initially I didnt like hockey that much, I was more interested in football and cricket. But my papa was fond of hockey, so he introduced me to a coach who is no more and he taught me the basics of the game and what opportunities are there," he shared.

Inspiration and Challenges

Lakra's path wasn't smooth; he often borrowed old goalkeeping kits from seniors to train. "When I went to camp at the lower level I used to stay in relatives house and train," he said. He began playing hockey in 2016 and joined Sports Hostel, Rourkela, where resources were limited.

During his early days at the hostel, Lakra played as a striker due to a lack of goalkeeping equipment. He managed with worn-out kits by repairing them himself. After lockdowns eased, a senior player gave him an old kit for practice. This support helped him continue his training.

Exposure and Achievements

Lakra's exposure tour to Malaysia for Odisha and participation in Khelo India were significant milestones. His team finished as runners-up initially but became champions the following year. He also played in a four-nation tournament in Germany with the Indian junior team.

He draws inspiration from PR Sreejesh, the chief coach of the Indian men's junior team. "Sreejesh bhai is my insipration. I watched him playing in 2018 World Cup in Bhubaneswar and thats when he inspired me," Lakra stated.

Learning from Experience

In his first HIL outing, Lakra aims to learn from experienced goalkeepers like Krishan Bahadur Pathak and Suraj Karkera. "I just want to learn from experienced goalkeepers from abroad as well India like Pathak bhaiya Krishan Bahadur Pathak, Suraj Karkera bhaiya," he expressed.

Lakra acknowledges the pressure of playing on such a big platform but remains focused on applying what he's learned without overextending himself. "Pressure will be there because it is my first HIL and a big platform where I got an opportunity," he added.

The men's HIL will commence in Chennai with Tamil Nadu Dragons facing Hyderabad Toofans on January 3. Shrachi Bengal Tigers will begin their campaign against Soorma Hockey Club on January 4.

With inputs from PTI