SportsPosted at: Jun 23 2025 5:00PM


Hockey fraternity lauds Lalit Upadhyay for a splendid international career

New Delhi, June 23 (UNI) The Indian Hockey fraternity on Monday lauded veteran forward Lalit Kumar Upadhyay for his contributions to the national team as the Varanasi native announced his retirement from international Hockey.
Upadhyay, who was one of the mainstays of the senior national team from 2014 to 2025, announced his decision through a social media post shortly after India’s final match of the European leg of the FIH Pro League 2024-25 season against Belgium.
In total he played 183 matches for the senior national team, scoring 67 goals.
Former India hockey great Ashok Kumar praised Lalit for his ability to score at crucial times.
"Lalit had a long tenure with the national team, he was an excellent striker who had the knack of scoring at crucial times, his tactical awareness made him a very versatile player, besides playing as a striker he also created scoring chances for others," he said.
Former India fullback V. R. Raghunath described Upadhay as a very hardworking player who always focused on executing the coach's plans and could play in several positions
"As the team is planning ahead for the next Olympics Lalit took the decision to make way for youngsters, he was a very hardworking and versatile player, he could play in several positions, he would score but he also won a lot of Penalty Corners for India and PC's are the major source for goals these days. His services to the national team for so many years will always be respected," he said.
Former India goalkeeper Mir Ranjan Negi described Lalit Upadhyay as a very talented player who kept the tradition of artistic hockey alive.
"He is one of the big names of Indian hockey and is very talented, hailing from Uttar Pradesh he carried forward the legacy of artistic traditional hockey, which was displayed by greats like Mohammed Shahid, while simultaneously being a very good opportunistic striker as well. He is going out on a high," Negi said.
Indian senior national team captain Harmanpreet Singh took to social media to pay tributes to Lalit, he described him as family and said that he will be missed.
"Many congratulations on your retirement from hockey. It’s a big step, and I know you’ve put your heart and soul into the sport for a long time. You’ve achieved so much, and you should be incredibly proud of everything you’ve accomplished. I hope you enjoy this new chapter and all the exciting things it has in store for you. I will miss you in every aspect; you were always there as an elder brother. You are family paji," Harmanpreet said.
Reflecting on Lalit’s contribution, Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey said, “Lalit has been one of the most graceful and dedicated forwards of his generation. Whether it was a crucial Olympic match or a league game, he always wore the Indian jersey with pride and played with heart. His journey from the narrow lanes of Varanasi to standing on the Olympic podium twice is nothing short of inspirational. We thank him for his selfless service to Indian hockey and wish him the very best for the next phase of his life.”
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh also lauded Lalit’s immense contribution and stated, “Lalit has been a true ambassador of the sport—humble off the field and fearless on it. His consistency, skill, and big-match temperament made him a pillar of the team across multiple Olympic cycles. He will be remembered not just for his goals but for the energy and positivity he brought to the team. Hockey India stands proud of his achievements and will continue to celebrate his legacy.”
UNI RKM BM
Tags: #Hockey fraternity lauds Lalit Upadhyay for a splendid international career
More News
India beat Mongolia in Women’s Asian Cup qualification opener

India beat Mongolia in Women’s Asian Cup qualification opener

23 Jun 2025 | 9:57 PM

Bangkok, June 23 (UNI) India began their AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers with a 13-0 victory against Mongolia at the 700th Anniversary of Chiang Mai Stadium here in Thailand on Monday.

see more..

Manipur remembers Olympians on Olympic day

23 Jun 2025 | 9:55 PM

Imphal, June 23 (UNI) Olympic Day was observed in the state by various organisations here on Monday.

see more..
Sri Lanka pacer Milan Rathnayake ruled out of second Bangladesh Test

Sri Lanka pacer Milan Rathnayake ruled out of second Bangladesh Test

23 Jun 2025 | 9:33 PM

Colombo, June 23 (UNI) Sri Lanka quick Milan Rathnayake has been ruled out for the second Test against Bangladesh after sustaining a left-side strain in the Galle Test.

see more..

International Olympians featuring in GMR RPL believe there is massive scope for Rugby sevens in India

23 Jun 2025 | 9:03 PM

Mumbai, June 23 (UNI) Rugby sevens, the faster, sharper version of traditional Rugby 15s, has exploded in popularity globally, especially since its inclusion in the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.

see more..
Pant, Rahul tons flatten Eng, India lead by 304 at Tea

Pant, Rahul tons flatten Eng, India lead by 304 at Tea

23 Jun 2025 | 8:42 PM

Leeds, Jun 23 (UNI) India took complete control of the first Test at Headingley by Tea on Day 4, riding on dominant centuries from KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant to reach 298 for 4 in 75 overs — a lead of 304 runs over England.

see more..