Kane Russell's hat-trick secures dominant six three win for HIL GC

Chennai witnessed a goal-scoring spectacle at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium as HIL GC delivered a clinical performance to defeat Shrachi Bengal Tigers 6-3. The Hockey India League 2026 encounter on Wednesday was defined by offensive brilliance, featuring a back-to-back hat-trick by Kane Russell and a significant contribution from Odisha’s own Sudeep Chirmako.

While the Tigers took an early lead through a penalty stroke by Captain Jugraj Singh in the 12th minute, HIL GC responded with overwhelming force. The second quarter acted as the turning point. In the 19th minute, Sam Ward equalized by expertly redirecting a long pass from Russell. Moments later, Kane Russell converted a penalty corner with a thunderous dragflick to put HIL GC ahead.

The momentum stayed with HIL GC in the third quarter. Russell, the league's leading scorer, extended the lead via another penalty corner. Odisha talent Sudeep Chirmako then electrified the crowd in the 38th minute, finding the net from a difficult angle to make it 4-1. Although the Tigers attempted a desperate comeback with two quick goals from Tom Grambusch and Christopher Ruhr, Russell effectively ended their hopes by completing his hat-trick in the 44th minute.

In a final attempt to salvage the game, the Tigers replaced their goalkeeper with an extra outfield player. This tactical gamble backfired in the 59th minute when James Albery dribbled past the defense to tap the ball into an empty net, sealing the 6-3 victory. This win solidifies HIL GC’s rhythm in the Men’s Hero Hockey India League, while the Tigers will need to address their defensive gaps before their next outing. For fans in Odisha, Chirmako’s goal remains a highlight of this high-octane match.