VEDANTA KALINGA LANCERS edged past Ranchi Royals 3-2 in a gripping final to lift the Men’s Hero Hockey India League (HIL) title in front of an electrified home crowd at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium on Monday.
Alexander Hendrickx struck twice (4’, 27’), while Dilpreet Singh added another in the 25th minute. Ranchi Royals stayed in the contest through goals from Araijeet Singh Hundal (9’) and captain Tom Boon, who found the net late in the 59th minute.
The HIL confirmed a prize money of Rs 3 crore for the champions, with the runners-up receiving Rs 2 crore. Hyderabad Toofans, who defeated HIL GC to finish third, were awarded Rs 1 crore.
HIL GC picked up the Fair Play Award, while Tamil Nadu Dragons goalkeeper Prince Deep Singh was named Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament. Talem Priyobarta of HIL GC won the Upcoming Player of the Tournament award. Both players received Rs 10 lakh each.
Ranchi Royals skipper Tom Boon finished as the tournament’s top scorer with 19 goals and was awarded Rs 10 lakh. Hyderabad Toofans’ Amandeep Lakra was crowned Hero Player of the Tournament, earning a prize of Rs 20 lakh.
