Proper infratructure required for improving hockey: Lakra

Ranchi, Jun 4 (UNI) Pointing out Jharkhand's contribution to Indian Hockey, centre-half Birendra Lakra said proper infrastucture should be provided to ensure the development of the game in the country.

''Both men and women from Jharkhand have sent several players to the national side, with the number of girls being more,'' Lakra told mediapersons here.

''No other state has given so many women players as Jharkhand has done. If the players get proper infrastructure and motivation, then Jharkhand will continue to supply quality players in both the men's and women's section,'' he added.

Lakra, who was a member of the Indian team that brought home the silver medal from the Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Tournament in Malaysia last month, was dismayed at the apathy displayed by the government and the public towards the team.

''I thought there would be some people at the airport to welcome me, but I felt sad when I found none,'' he lamented. ''This will only discourage the players.'' UNI XC AB CS DS1405