- Indian hockey midfielder Nilakanta Sharma has announced his retirement from international hockey, bringing an end to an impressive nine-year career representing the country.
- The 31-year-old Olympic bronze medallist from Manipur will conclude his international journey after India’s campaign at the Hero Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026.
- Hockey India confirmed the announcement on October 27, 2026, following India’s emphatic 13-0 victory against Bangladesh in the tournament’s opening match in Jalandhar.
Nilakanta Sharma’s International Hockey Career
- Nilakanta Sharma made his senior international debut against Belgium in 2017.
- Over the years, he established himself as a dependable midfielder, earning recognition for his work rate, discipline and contribution to India’s midfield.
- According to Hockey India, he reached his 163rd international appearance against Bangladesh and scored his 20th international goal during the match.
- His decision marks the conclusion of a remarkable journey in Indian hockey.
Tokyo Olympics Bronze Medal: Career’s Biggest Achievement
One of the defining moments of Nilakanta Sharma’s career came at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
He was part of the Indian men’s hockey team that secured the bronze medal, ending India’s 41-year wait for an Olympic hockey medal.
Other major achievements include:
- 2015: Winner of the Junior Asia Cup.
- 2016: FIH Men’s Junior World Cup champion.
- 2018: Asian Champions Trophy winner.
- 2019: FIH Men’s Series Finals winner.
- 2020: Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist.
- 2022: Asian Games gold medallist.
- 2022: Commonwealth Games silver medallist.
- 2026: Asian Games gold medallist.
Why Did Nilakanta Sharma Decide to Retire?
- Nilakanta Sharma explained that retirement was his personal decision.
- He discussed his plans with the Indian team’s coach and felt it was the right time to give younger players opportunities to represent the country.
- He also expressed his desire to contribute to hockey’s development in Manipur.