Manipur’s Nilakanta Sharma Announces Retirement from International Hockey

Jalandhar, October 27: Indian hockey midfielder and Manipur-born player Nilakanta Sharma has announced that he will retire from international hockey after India’s campaign at the Hero Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026. Hockey India has congratulated the 31-year-old veteran for his dedicated service and significant contributions to Indian hockey.

Nilakanta made his 163rd international appearance during India’s opening match against Bangladesh at the Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar on Tuesday. India registered a commanding 13–0 victory, with Nilakanta scoring one goal to take his international tally to 20.

Hailing from Manipur, Nilakanta will conclude his international career as a member of one of India’s most successful hockey generations. His achievements include a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics and gold medals at two consecutive Asian Games.

From Junior World Cup Champion to Olympic Medallist

Nilakanta first established himself in junior hockey, winning the 2015 Junior Asia Cup before playing a key role in India’s triumph at the 2016 FIH Men’s Junior World Cup in Lucknow.

He made his senior international debut against Belgium in 2017 and subsequently became a dependable presence in India’s midfield, representing the country at several major international tournaments.

His achievements with the senior team include winning the Asian Champions Trophy in 2018, which India shared with Pakistan, and the FIH Men’s Series Finals in Bhubaneswar in 2019.

One of the defining moments of his career came at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, where he was part of the Indian team that secured a bronze medal, ending India’s 41-year wait for an Olympic hockey medal.

He also represented India at the Men’s Hockey World Cups in 2018, 2023 and 2026 and won a silver medal at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Two Consecutive Asian Games Gold Medals

Nilakanta won his first Asian Games gold medal with India at Hangzhou in 2022, followed by a second gold at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, earlier this month.

He was also part of India’s Asian Champions Trophy-winning teams in 2023 and 2024, further strengthening his record as a key contributor to the national side.

Explaining his decision to retire, Nilakanta said he had discussed the matter with the team’s coach during the Asian Games and felt the time was right to bring his international career to a close after the next tournament.

Reflecting on his most memorable experiences, he described the Olympic bronze medal as one of the biggest moments of his career. He also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to feature in India’s final two matches at the 2026 Asian Games, where he helped the team secure another gold medal after being included in the squad following Raj Kumar Pal’s hand injury.

Nilakanta Hopes to Contribute to Hockey in Manipur

Looking ahead, the Manipuri midfielder expressed his desire to remain connected with the sport and contribute to its development in his home state.

He said he hopes to give back to hockey, the game that has given him so much, by helping promote its growth in Manipur.

His decision marks the end of an international playing career defined by major tournament appearances, team achievements and years of service to Indian hockey.

Hockey India Pays Tribute

Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey praised Nilakanta for his dedication, commitment and contributions to the national team, acknowledging his valuable role in midfield throughout his international career.

Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh also lauded the midfielder’s hard work, understanding of the game and contribution to India’s achievements on the international stage.

Both officials thanked Nilakanta for his service to Indian hockey and wished him success and happiness in the next chapter of his life.

As Nilakanta prepares to conclude his international career, his achievements remain a significant source of pride for Manipur and its hockey community.