With the Hockey India League 2026 approaching, Kalinga Lancers have initiated their pre-season training camp at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. The camp commenced with Indian players assembling for a strategy meeting led by the team’s Technical & Strategy Coach, Pascal Kina, to lay the groundwork for the upcoming season. Notable Indian players present at the camp include Captain Sanjay, goalkeeper Krishan B Pathak, defenders Partap Lakra, Rohit Kullu, Sunil P B, and midfielders Rabichandra Moirangthem, Rosan Kujur, Dilpreet Singh, and Amit Kumar Toppo.
Pascal Kina, boasting over 15 years of international hockey experience, including stints in Europe, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, China, and Korea, is set to make his debut in Indian hockey with the Hero HIL. Expressing his excitement about being in India for the first time, Kina stated, “I’m proud to represent Vedanta Kalinga Lancers, and it has already been an exciting start.” The initial training phase with Indian players focuses on fitness, testing, and team bonding, with Kina emphasizing the importance of building cohesion within the group.
Confident in the team’s abilities, Kina expressed his optimism for the season ahead, highlighting the readiness of overseas players and the upcoming practice match on the 28th. The Belgian coach emphasized a game-by-game approach, aiming to compete at the highest level and strive for championship victory. As preparations intensify for the Hero HIL 2026 season, foreign players and head coach Jay Stacy are expected to join the squad post-Christmas, gearing up to face Ranchi Royals in their inaugural match on January 4, 2026, in Chennai.
