Hockey: Birendra Lakra to replace injured Varun Kumar in the Team for FIH Olympic Qualifiers

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ANTWERP – 2019 Test Matches: India Belgium v India Photo: Birendra Lakra WORLDSPORTPICS COPYRIGHT FRANK UIJLENBROEK

Bhubaneswar, 30 October : Hockey India on Wednesday named defender Birender Lakra to replace injured defender-dragflicker Varun Kumar for the crucial FIH Olympic Qualifier matches against Russia November at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium, here on on 1 and 2 November.

“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,” said Indian Men’s Hockey Team’s Chief coach Graham Reid.

“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.” he added.