A significant transformation has occurred in Amandeep Lakra since the Hockey India League (HIL). Prior to the eight-team competition, which concluded on February 1, Lakra was an emerging talent who had established himself at the junior level and was eager to secure a position on the senior national team.

Currently, Lakra is on the verge of being selected for the Indian team, as chief coach Craig Fulton has included the 22-year-old among the core probables following an impressive performance in the HIL with the Hyderabad Toofans, where he played a pivotal role in leading the Sumit Walmiki-led team to the finals.

Although the Toofans did not clinch victory, losing to the Bengal Tigers, Lakra distinguished himself by scoring five vital goals throughout the tournament. Notably, the son of hockey coach Bijay Kumar Lakra had the opportunity to train alongside his idol, drag-flicking legend Gonzalo Peillat, for over two months, an experience he credits with significantly enhancing his skills.

“I engaged in extensive discussions with him regarding drag-flicking, acquiring valuable insights on how to enhance my performance. He not only elucidated various techniques but also provided on-field guidance,” remarked the Rourkela native about Peillat, who secured an Olympic gold medal in 2016 with Argentina before switching allegiance to Germany, where he won silver at the Paris Games.

Lakra has been a standout performer for India’s junior team, contributing to victories in the 2022 Sultan of Johor Cup and the 2023 Junior Asia Cup. His success as a penalty corner specialist with Odisha and Railways led to his selection as the second drag-flicker for the Toofans, behind Peillat.

Despite facing initial challenges, Lakra's confidence grew with Peillat's mentorship, who also triumphed in the 2023 World Cup with Germany. Lakra not only executed penalty corners but also confounded opposing teams as a secondary option, netting five goals in the HIL.

“He imparted numerous strategies, such as how to respond when a first rusher approaches during a penalty corner, and techniques to outmanoeuvre him and score. I learned a great deal about timing, which Gonzalo emphasizes as the most critical element; releasing the flick at the right moment to achieve a balance of power and precision.”

Read Also: Ex-Pakistan Star Claims 'Way Better Than Virat and Babar' as Champions Trophy Approaches

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!