Vedanta Kalinga Lancers delivered a memorable performance in front of their home supporters, defeating Ranchi Royals 3–2 in a thrilling Final to win the Men’s Hero Hockey India League (HIL) title at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium on Monday.
Belgian drag-flick specialist Alexander Hendrickx was the standout performer for the Lancers, scoring twice in the 4th and 27th minutes, while Dilpreet Singh added another goal in the 25th minute. For Ranchi Royals, Araijeet Singh Hundal (9’) and captain Tom Boon (59’) found the back of the net in a closely contested encounter.
Early Momentum and Fast-Paced First Half
Both teams began the Final with high intensity, creating multiple circle entries in the opening quarter. Vedanta Kalinga Lancers drew first blood when Hendrickx converted a penalty corner with a powerful drag-flick in the fourth minute.
Ranchi Royals responded quickly, levelling the score in the ninth minute. Yashdeep Siwach’s cross-field lob found Araijeet Singh Hundal, who controlled the ball superbly before firing home an emphatic field goal.
The second quarter proved decisive as the Lancers took control of the match. Sustained pressure resulted in a penalty corner in the 25th minute, where Hendrickx’s initial attempt was saved, but Dilpreet Singh reacted swiftly to convert the rebound. Just two minutes later, Hendrickx struck again with a thunderous drag-flick into the top corner, giving the hosts a 3–1 lead at half-time.
Royals Fight Back, Pathak Stands Tall
Ranchi Royals dominated possession in the third quarter and pushed hard to close the gap. Captain Tom Boon came close from a penalty corner, while Araijeet Singh Hundal was denied by a brilliant save from goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak in the 45th minute.
The final quarter saw the Royals launch relentless attacks. Pathak rose to the occasion with a series of crucial saves against Sam Lane, Tom Boon, and Nilam Sanjeep Xess, including a spectacular stick save in the 54th minute.
In the 59th minute, Tom Boon converted a penalty corner with a precise low drag-flick to give Ranchi Royals hope. However, the Lancers’ defence held firm in the closing moments to secure a historic 3–2 victory and lift the Men’s Hero HIL title.
Prize Money and Individual Awards
Hero Hockey India League announced a total prize pool with:
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₹3 crore awarded to champions Vedanta Kalinga Lancers
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₹2 crore to runners-up Ranchi Royals
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₹1 crore to third-placed Hyderabad Toofans
Individual Awards:
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Fairplay Award: HIL GC
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Best Goalkeeper: Prince Deep Singh (Tamil Nadu Dragons) – ₹10 lakh
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Upcoming Player of the Tournament: Talem Priyobarta (HIL GC) – ₹10 lakh
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Top Scorer of the Tournament: Tom Boon (Ranchi Royals, 19 goals) – ₹10 lakh
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Hero Player of the Tournament: Amandeep Lakra (Hyderabad Toofans) – ₹20 lakh
