At just 14 years of age, Ketan Kushwaha may not fully grasp the scale of his achievement, but the young hockey player from Jhansi is set to make history. Kushwaha will become the youngest player to feature in a professional league when he turns out in the Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26 season.
A trainee at the UP Sports Hostel in Lucknow, Kushwaha was picked up by defending champions Shrachi Bengal Tigers during the HIL auction held in September. The franchise secured him at his base price of Rs. 2.5 lakh. While the figure may appear modest in professional sport, the teenager sees the opportunity as a major step in his development.
“It will be a great learning experience to play with international stars and Olympians from India and other countries but I also hope to enjoy my time. I saw all the HIL matches last year and really liked the competition. I will try my best to contribute in any way I can to ensure we retain the title,” a shy Kushwaha was quoted as saying by Sportstar.
Kushwaha, who prefers playing as a striker or linkman, will share the dressing room with some of the biggest names in the sport. His teammates will include India star Abhisek Nain and German legend Christopher Ruhr, players widely regarded as among the best in their roles. For a teenager still in school, the chance to train and compete alongside such experienced players is expected to be invaluable.
The Jhansi boy first picked up a hockey stick at the age of six, inspired by his elder brother. For the past three years, he has been training in Lucknow under former India player Rajneesh Mishra, who has played a key role in guiding his progress.
“The coach only suggested we fill up the player registration forms for the HIL. There were other boys also from the hostel. He said it will help us in getting experience, develop our game, learn new things and also improve our chances of playing for India one day. I did not understand much then but I trust my coach completely, he will not give wrong advice,” Kushwaha said.
Kushwaha will not be alone among familiar faces in the league. Fellow Uttar Pradesh players Affan Yousuf and Atul Deep will also feature this season. “I have spoken to them and they said you will like it and learn a lot. They spoke about teamwork, unity, listening to each other but not to take too much stress. But I want to prove myself to the team,” said the class ninth student.
Apart from representing his school, Kushwaha also plays for Indian Oil as a scholarship student. As he prepares for his HIL debut, the teenager remains focused on learning, improving, and making the most of an opportunity that has come far earlier than most.
