Rourkela’s Own Stars Sunelita Toppo and Jyoti Chattri Set to Shine at Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium

Rourkela: The excitement is palpable in Rourkela as the Indian Women’s Hockey Team prepares to play their inaugural international match at the grand Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium today. This special occasion marks a homecoming for local talents Sunelita Toppo and Jyoti Chattri, adding an extra layer of significance to the historic event.

Both Sunelita and Jyoti, products of Odisha’s rich hockey ecosystem, expressed their enthusiasm at the prospect of showcasing their skills in front of their hometown crowd. Sunelita, a graduate of SAI Sundargarh, rapidly ascended the ranks from the Junior National Camp to the Senior Team, making her mark on the international stage. Her journey includes representing India at the Junior World Cup and contributing to Odisha’s Bronze medal at the 6th Khelo India Youth Games 2023.

“I never imagined I’d have the chance to play in front of my family at home. It’s a special feeling, and everyone at home is really happy and excited for the FIH Pro League matches in Rourkela. It will be the team’s first match at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, making it even sweeter. I’m very much looking forward to it,” expressed the 16-year-old Sunelita.

Jyoti, who commenced her hockey journey at Panposh Sports Hostel before joining the Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High-Performance Centre in 2020, echoed similar sentiments. After making her debut in the Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team and subsequently joining the senior ranks, Jyoti experienced success at the Junior Asia Cup and contributed to India’s silver medal win at the recent FIH Hockey5s World Cup Oman 2024.

“I’ve been waiting for this moment since last year when the Men’s Hockey World Cup was happening. It’s a dream come true moment for me to play for my country, at home, in front of my family,” stated the 20-year-old Jyoti.

David John, Director of Hockey, Odisha, commented on the significance of Sunelita and Jyoti’s return to their roots, stating, “Playing at home comes with high expectations and some pressure to perform, but these three players will do the State proud.” He emphasized the bright future of Odisha hockey, with the state’s robust infrastructure and a growing number of young players honing their skills daily.

As Rourkela eagerly anticipates the spectacle at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, the homecoming of Sunelita and Jyoti adds an emotional touch to the historic moment, promising an electrifying atmosphere for the maiden international fixture.