Alexander Hendrickx shines as Lancers claim historic home victory.
Bhubaneswar:Jubilant scenes erupted at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium on Monday as the home favorites, Vedanta Kalinga Lancers, edged out Ranchi Royals in a high-octane clash to lift the Men’s Hero Hockey India League 2026 title. In a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the Lancers secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory to claim the championship on home turf.
Star drag-flicker Alexander Hendrickx was the architect of the win, netting two crucial goals in the 4th and 27th minutes. Dilpreet Singh also found the back of the net in the 25th minute, ensuring the home team stayed ahead. For the Ranchi Royals, Araijeet Singh Hundal and Captain Tom Boon were the goal scorers, but their efforts fell just short of the title.
A Game of Two Halves
Both teams started with aggressive intent. The Lancers struck first with Hendrickx converting an early penalty corner. However, the Royals responded quickly. In the ninth minute, a brilliant cross from Yashdeep Siwach found Araijeet Singh Hundal, who smashed the equaliser.
The second quarter proved decisive for Vedanta Kalinga Lancers. They dominated possession and forced multiple penalty corners. After Royals goalkeeper Suraj Karkera saved an initial flick, Dilpreet Singh pounced on the rebound to restore the lead. Moments later, Hendrickx unleashed a powerful drag-flick into the top corner, making it 3-1 going into halftime.
Defense Wins Championships
The second half saw the Ranchi Royals throwing everything at the Lancers' defense. Despite dominating possession in the third quarter, the Royals could not break through the disciplined backline.
The final quarter turned into a showcase for Lancers goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak. He made three spectacular saves, including a breathtaking stick save in the 54th minute. Although Tom Boon managed to pull one back for Ranchi with a late penalty corner in the 59th minute, the Lancers held their nerve to secure theMen’s HIL Final victory.
Rewards and Recognition
Hockey India League awarded a massive prize purse of INR 3 Crore to the champions, while the runners-up received INR 2 Crore. Hyderabad Toofans, who finished third, took home INR 1 Crore.
Several individual performances were also honored:
With Inputs and Image Source: HIL
