Bhubaneswar, Dec 24 (NationPress) As the Hockey India League 2026 approaches, the Kalinga Lancers have initiated their pre-season training camp, with Indian players arriving at the Kalinga Stadium on Tuesday.

The inaugural day of the camp featured a strategic meeting led by the team’s Technical & Strategy Coach, Pascal Kina, as the franchise laid the groundwork for the upcoming season.

The Indian players presently in attendance include Captain Sanjay, goalkeeper Krishan B Pathak, and defenders Partap Lakra, Rohit Kullu, and Sunil P B. In midfield and forwards, we have Rabichandra Moirangthem, Rosan Kujur, Dilpreet Singh, and Amit Kumar Toppo, along with Angab Bir Singh, Deepak Pradhan, Gursahibjit Singh, and Boby Singh Dhami.

Pascal Kina, who joins the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers with over 15 years of experience in international hockey, has coached extensively throughout Europe and with teams in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, China, and Korea. However, the Hero HIL will mark his debut tournament in India.

Reflecting on his arrival, Kina expressed, “This is my first time in India, and I am truly excited to be here. Having been involved in international hockey for many years, India was a destination I had yet to visit. I am honored to represent Vedanta Kalinga Lancers and the start has been exhilarating.”

Discussing the focus during the early training sessions, he stated, “This period is crucial for fitness work, testing, and establishing rapport with the players. I didn’t know these individuals beforehand, so forming that initial connection and building team cohesion is essential for me.”

With limited time to prepare, Kina remains optimistic about the squad, stating, “We have a talented group of players, and I am confident about this season. We have a practice match scheduled for the 28th. Most of the overseas players are coming from their national team camps, ensuring they are match-ready, which is ideal, and I believe we will be adequately prepared for the league.”

Outlining his approach for the season, the Belgian coach remarked, “My philosophy is to tackle the tournament one game at a time and aim for the highest success possible. Every team aspires to win the championship, and we are no different. Along with the coaching staff, our goal is to push this team to compete at the highest level and achieve significant milestones.”

The foreign players, alongside head coach Jay Stacy, are scheduled to join the squad after Christmas, as the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers intensify preparations for the upcoming Hero HIL 2026 season. They will face the Ranchi Royals in their opening match on Sunday, January 4, 2026, in Chennai.