Vedanta Kalinga Lancers emerged victorious by defeating Ranchi Royals 3-2 in a thrilling final of the Men’s Hockey India League (HIL) at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium in Bhubaneswar. Alexander Hendrickx and Dilpreet Singh scored for the Lancers, while Araijeet Singh Hundal and captain Tom Boon netted for Ranchi Royals.
The Hockey India League (HIL) announced prize money of INR 3 crore for the champions Vedanta Kalinga Lancers, INR 2 crore for the runners-up Ranchi Royals, and INR 1 crore for the third-place team Hyderabad Toofans. Hyderabad Toofans defeated HIL GC to secure the third position.
In individual awards, Ranchi Royals’ captain Tom Boon was recognized as the top scorer of the tournament with 19 goals, while Hyderabad Toofans’ Amandeep Lakra was named the Player of the Tournament. The Fairplay Award went to HIL GC, and Tamil Nadu Dragons’ Prince Deep Singh was honored as the Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament.
The final match saw both teams displaying strong performances, with Vedanta Kalinga Lancers taking an early lead through penalty corners converted by Alexander Hendrickx. Despite a spirited fightback by Ranchi Royals, the Lancers managed to secure the victory with a solid defensive display in the closing stages of the game.
