A dynamic forward known for his speed, agility and goal-scoring ability, Shilanand has consistently impressed with his performances for the Indian team. He has represented India in several prestigious international tournaments since making his senior debut at the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in 2018. Most recently, he played a key role in India’s victorious campaign in the Men’s Asia Cup Hockey Championship, where his outstanding performance in the semifinal earned him the Man of the Match award.

Shilanand, son of Mr. Carlus Lakra and Mrs. Mary Grace Lakra of Kalijapathar village in Sundargarh district, joined the SAIL Hockey Academy in August 2015 and remained a cadet of the academy till 2019. During his formative years, he was groomed under the expert guidance of veteran coaches Raju Kant Saini, an NIS (National Institute of Sports) coach, and Peter Tirkey, former India Junior Hockey player, at the RSP Hockey Academy.

His selection to represent India at the sport’s biggest global stage is a testimony to the SAIL Hockey Academy’s excellence in identifying and nurturing young sporting talent. The achievement also reinforces Rourkela Steel Plant’s long-standing commitment to the promotion and development of hockey in the country.

Shilanand Lakra, a distinguished alumnus of SAIL Hockey Academy of SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) delivered a stellar performance performance in the Men’s Asia Cup Hockey Championship held at Rajgir in which India emerged champions. With the victory, India also qualified for the 2026 Men’s Hockey World Cup, which will be held in Belgium and the Netherlands. Besides, in the finals of the Men’s Asia Cup Hockey Championship India beat defending champions South Korea by 4-1 goals.

Shilanand was a key contributor to India’s journey, especially in the semifinal against China, where he powered the team to a commanding 7–0 win and was deservedly adjudged the Man of the Match.

Notably, Shilanand who plays in the forward line made debut in the Indian Hockey Squad in the 27^th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Tournament in March 2018. The promising youngster known for his agile moves has so far earned 39 international caps. The prolific forward had a great record representing the India Junior team as well earning numerous laurels for the country.

It is worth mentioning here that, Shilanand, son of Mr. Carlus Lakra and Mrs. Mary Grace Lakra, residents of Kalijapathar village of Sundargarh district joined the SAIL Hockey Academy in August 2015 and was a cadet of the academy till 2019. During this period he learnt the nuances of Hockey from veterans like Raju Kant Saini a NIS (National institute of Sports) coach as well as Peter Tirkey, former National Junior India Hockey player, the two Hockey coaches of RSP.