Bhubaneswar, Jan. 27 -- Vedanta Kalinga Lancers were crowned Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26 champions following a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Ranchi Royals at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium, according to a release.

Following the team's title win on Monday, Captain Arthur Van Doren reflected on the season's challenges and credited the victory to the squad's chemistry and the support of the home crowd.

The championship win marks the culmination of a rapid four-week build-up for the squad. Highlighting the difficulty of creating a cohesive bond in such a short timeframe, Arthur said, "Four weeks to build a bond and shape a team is a very short time, and it is extremely challenging. That's why we are incredibly proud of what we have ...