Kalinga Lancers shine with clinical second quarter goals against Ranchi

Odisha’s beloved franchise, Kalinga Lancers, began their quest for the Hockey India League 2026 trophy with a resounding 4-2 win over Ranchi Royals. The match, filled with high-intensity action, signaled a transformation for the Lancers, who successfully balanced their traditional attacking flair with a newfound defensive stability.

The contest started with a sudden wake-up call for the Odisha-based side. Ranchi Royals forward Araijeet Singh Hundal wasted no time, penetrating the circle in under a minute to earn a penalty corner. Tom Boon, the reigning FIH World Player of the Year, fired a rocket past goalkeeper Krishan Pathak to give Ranchi the early lead. By the ninth minute, Mandeep Singh doubled the pressure with a clever close-range finish, leaving the Lancers trailing 1-2.

However, the second quarter belonged entirely to the Kalinga Lancers. They flipped the script with a three-goal blitz that left the Royals reeling. Alexander Hendrickx, the Belgian powerhouse, reminded everyone of his world-class drag-flicking ability by finding the net in the 7th and 28th minutes. Supporting this aerial assault was Gursahibjit Singh, whose sharp positioning and tactical awareness resulted in two crucial goals in the 16th and 26th minutes.

Unlike previous seasons where the Lancers often faltered after taking a lead, the second half of this match showcased a much more mature squad. They successfully neutralized the Ranchi Royals’ attempts to fight back, maintaining a solid structure across the pitch. Krishan Pathak also redeemed himself after the early lapses, making key saves during critical moments to preserve the lead.

For Ranchi Royals, coached by Harendra Singh, the match offered glimpses of brilliance through Mandeep and Araijeet, but they could not overcome the collective rhythm of the home team. This opening victory sends a strong message to the rest of the league. Kalinga Lancers are no longer just entertainers; they are disciplined contenders. For the fans in Bhubaneswar and across Odisha, this win provides the perfect momentum for the season ahead.