Vedanta Kalinga Lancers opened their Men’s Hockey India League campaign with a spirited 4–2 win over Ranchi Royals at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium.
Ranchi Royals struck early through Tom Boon and Mandeep Singh, but the Lancers responded strongly. Alexander Hendrickx converted two penalty corners, while Gursahibjit Singh scored twice from open play to turn the match around. After a fast-paced first half that ended 4–2, the final quarter saw Ranchi push hard for goals.
However, disciplined defending from the Lancers ensured they held firm and sealed a confident opening victory.