Sakshi Rana, who is just 17 years old, showed remarkable promise in the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024–2025, her first senior international competition in Indian colors, held at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.

Sakshi made her debut during India’s first game against Spain, and although they lost 3–4, it was a memorable day for her since she scored an amazing field goal. She then made appearances against Germany and Spain once more, respectively.

“I was ecstatic since I had been looking forward to my debut day for a very long time. Before the game, I wasn’t particularly anxious since the seniors encouraged me and assured me that because it was my first game, I could play freely. Sakshi spoke about her first time playing.

Sakshi’s objective was a masterful one-man show. She won the ball in a hazardous location by applying pressure and timing her tackle well. She then took a touch and scored her first goal with a backhand shot from within the circle. Sakshi clarified throughout the conversation, saying, “I was quite focused since my goal was to score on my debut. I saw that no one was around when I put up the effort to get the ball, so I simply took the shot. I realized I had scored a goal when everyone began yelling. I felt so joyful.

Sakshi was first put in the standbys when the roster was announced, but main coach Harendra Singh saw her potential and hard work and included her to the squad for the match against Spain. “When he (Harendra Singh) informed me that I was playing, he said that he was choosing my game rather than me. He assured me that the veteran players would support me on the pitch and that I would have an opportunity to score. After I achieved my objective, he even gave me a hug, which was a memorable experience for me,” she said.

Despite her impressive accomplishments, Sakshi believes she still has to improve her training pace. “I’ve realized it’s all about pace now after playing against international players in the Hockey India League and Pro League lately. Since I am a forward, I must be speedy on the field, therefore I will start practicing that right now.

Sakshi played a key role in the Indian Junior Women’s Team’s victory in the Women’s Junior Asia Cup the previous year. She is now committed to maintaining that momentum and assisting India in winning the Junior World Cup in Chile later this year. “I’m working hard for the Junior World Cup, and that’s my only focus. I think I can help India win another gold if I train consistently and work hard,” she said.