Bhubaneswar, Dec 20 (NationPress) As the Hockey India League season approaches, Kalinga Lancers has officially announced on Saturday the selection of India’s Sanjay and Belgium’s renowned player Arthur Van Doren as co-captains of their team.

The HIL 2026 is set to take place from January 3 to 26, 2026, in Chennai, Ranchi, and Bhubaneswar. Kalinga Lancers will kick off their HIL 2026 journey against the Ranchi Royals on January 4, 2026, in Chennai.

Indian drag-flicker Sanjay recently led his national squad to a runners-up finish, while Van Doren guided Belgium to victory at the 31st Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in November 2025, showcasing the exceptional leadership qualities both players bring to Kalinga Lancers as they embark on a new season.

Originating from Haryana, Sanjay rapidly ascended through the junior divisions, participating in the 2018 Youth Olympic Games and the 2021 Junior World Cup, where he was vice-captain and the team’s leading scorer. He debuted in the senior team during the 2022–23 FIH Hockey Pro League and has become a key player in the Indian lineup.

He contributed to India’s gold medal achievement at the 2023 Asian Games and the historic bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The Arjuna Awardee has represented India in 78 international matches to date.

Arthur Van Doren, in contrast, is recognized as one of the most successful defenders in modern hockey. He is a Tokyo 2020 Olympic gold medalist and 2023 World Cup champion, having also secured silver at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games and the 2023 World Cup. Currently leading Belgium in the ongoing FIH Hockey Pro League, Van Doren has amassed 276 international caps since his senior debut in 2012.

In discussing his new position, Sanjay expressed, “Leading the Kalinga Lancers in the Hero Hockey India League is a significant milestone for me. Having grown up watching this league, receiving this chance is genuinely remarkable. I am thankful to the franchise management and coaching staff for their confidence in me. Sharing leadership with a player like Arthur will be an invaluable learning journey, and together we will strive to secure the title.”

Arthur Van Doren commented, “I am genuinely thrilled to assume this role with Kalinga Lancers. Leadership is a rewarding aspect I cherish with the national team, and captaining a side in the HIL presents a fresh and exciting challenge. I appreciate the owners and coaches for this opportunity. I eagerly anticipate reuniting with Sanjay and the rest of the team as we embark on this journey.”

Rajiv Kumar, CEO of Vedanta Kalinga Lancers, stated, “We are excited to announce Sanjay and Arthur Van Doren as co-captains for the upcoming HIL season. They embody the ideal combination of youth, experience, and leadership within our team. Both have recently led their national squads to the finals of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, highlighting their composure and capability to lead effectively. With the new season approaching rapidly, we are eager to commence our preparations and work towards our objectives.”