When the Hero Men’s Hockey India League first burst onto the scene in 2013, Odisha’s presence was modest but meaningful.
Six players from the state featured in the inaugural season, carrying forward a legacy rooted in tribal belts, dusty training grounds and an unshakeable love for the sport.
Thirteen years later, as the Men’s Hero HIL 2025–26 unfolded, that number has nearly tripled.
This season, 16 players from Odisha were part of the league — a rise of 10 players, translating to a 166.7% increase compared to the inaugural edition.
Back in 2013, Amit Rohidas (Ranchi Rhinos), Stanli Minz (Ranchi Rhinos), Arvind Kujur (Ranchi Rhinos), Sushant Tirkey (Ranchi Rhinos), Suresh Toppo (UP Wizards), Birendra Lakra (Ranchi Rhinos) were the Odishans part of HIL.
Fast forward to today, and Odisha’s players are no longer fringe participants. They are spread across franchises, embedded in starting line-ups, and trusted in key roles.
Team-wise list of the 16 Odisha players in the current season:
– Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons: Amit Rohidas, Anand Lakra, Adrohit Ekka, Sushil Dhanwar
– HIL GC: Prasant Barla, Sudeep Chirmako
– Hyderabad Toofans: Amandeep Lakra, Shilanand Lakra
– Ranchi Royals: Anmol Ekka, Nilam Sanjeep Xess
– Shrachi Bengal Tigers: Vivek Lakra
– Vedanta Kalinga Lancers: Rohit Kullu, Rosan Kujur, Deepak Pradhan, Dipsan Tirkey, Partap Lakra
