Bhubaneswar, Jan 27 (NationPress) Kalinga Lancers triumphed in the Men’s Hockey India League 2025-26, securing the title with a narrow 3-2 victory against Ranchi Royals during the final held at Kalinga Hockey Stadium on Monday. This victory capped off a season characterized by consistency, discipline, and team clarity. Head coach Jay Stacy remarked that the championship exemplified ‘everything the group committed to over the season.

The Lancers’ successful campaign was underscored by a dominant performance throughout the season, where they not only topped the league standings but also emerged victorious in both Qualifier 1 and the Final, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure at crucial moments.

A robust defensive strategy served as the backbone of the team’s championship achievement. Kalinga Lancers conceded only 11 goals throughout the tournament, achieving the best defensive record in the league. Their execution of penalty corners was notably effective, finishing the season with the highest conversion rate at 31.8 percent. Belgian drag flicker Alexander Hendrickx led the team's scoring with 12 goals across nine matches, consistently rising to the occasion.

Jay Stacy highlighted the importance of focusing on the process and remaining adaptable throughout the season. “This group demonstrated the capacity to learn, adjust, and respond to various challenges as the competition evolved,” he stated. “There were matches where we needed to control possession, other times where absorbing pressure was necessary, and moments where deep defending was the right choice.”

“What brought me the most satisfaction was the honesty within the group. The players embraced the notion that every role was significant and that discipline without the ball was as crucial as creativity with it. This title is a testament to the habits developed over weeks, not merely a single performance on the final night.”

Captain Arthur Van Doren stressed the team’s mental resilience during pivotal matches. “In knockout games, minor moments determine outcomes, and I believe we managed those moments effectively,” he stated. “We maintained our composure even when games became chaotic, trusted the structure we honed throughout the season, and kept the lines of communication open, even in high-pressure situations.”

“Leading this group and winning in Bhubaneswar, in front of our home crowd, added an extra layer of pride.”

Alexander Hendrickx praised the collective effort behind their championship success and his contribution to it. “I am pleased to have stepped up when the team needed me, but these achievements are a result of the entire group’s efforts,” he noted. “From securing penalty corners to applying pressure, everything begins with how the team collaborates.”

“Claiming the HIL title after weeks of striving towards the same goal is an incredible feeling. We had a clear objective from the season's onset and remained committed to it. Finishing as champions in front of our home fans and sharing that moment with this group makes it exceptionally special.”

Kalinga Lancers concluded the Men’s Hockey India League 2025-26 season as champions, having topped the league standings and won both Qualifier 1 and the Final.