India, Dec. 25 -- Battling financial constraints, young goalkeeper Vivek Lakra rose from borrowing playing kits from seniors to becoming the costliest and most sought-after junior player at the upcoming Hockey India League (HIL), after being picked up by Shrachi Bengal Warriors for Rs23 lakh. Lakra, who turned 18 only a few days ago, hails from Sundergarh, Odisha's famed hockey nursery, though he admits the sport was not his first choice.

He was introduced to hockey by his father, a die-hard fan of the game. "I didn't expect that much, as my base price was just Rs2 lakh. When the auction was going on I was just thinking any team picks me up and then when the bidding war started I was watching the proceedings with my friends. When the bid...