Bhubaneswar, 20 December (H.S.): Ahead of the upcoming Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2026, Vedanta Kalinga Lancers on Saturday announced the appointment of Indian drag-flicker Sanjay and Belgian star defender Arthur Van Doren as the team’s co-captains. The Hero HIL 2026 will be held from January 3 to 26, 2026, across Chennai, Ranchi, and Bhubaneswar.

Sanjay, one of India’s leading drag-flick specialists, recently guided his team to a runner-up finish in an international tournament as captain.

Arthur Van Doren, on the other hand, led Belgium to the title win at the 31st Sultan Azlan Shah Cup held in November 2025.

The dual leadership combination of Sanjay’s youthful energy and Van Doren’s vast global experience is expected to strengthen Vedanta Kalinga Lancers’ prospects for the upcoming season.

Sanjay’s Rise in Indian HockeyHailing from Haryana, Sanjay first gained recognition at the junior level, representing India at the 2018 Youth Olympic Games and the 2021 Junior World Cup, where he served as vice-captain and finished as the team’s top goal-scorer.

He made his senior debut during the 2022–23 FIH Hockey Pro League and has since become an integral part of the national setup. Sanjay was a member of both the 2023 Asian Games gold medal-winning team and the Paris 2024 Olympic bronze medal-winning squad.

The Arjuna Award recipient has played 78 international matches for India to date.Arthur Van Doren: Belgium’s Defensive MaestroArthur Van Doren is widely regarded as one of modern hockey’s most accomplished defenders.

A Tokyo 2020 Olympic gold medallist, he was also part of Belgium’s 2023 World Cup-winning squad. His illustrious career includes a silver medal at the Rio 2016 Olympics and another silver at the 2023 World Cup.Since making his senior debut in 2012, Van Doren has represented Belgium in 276 international matches and currently captains his national team in the FIH Hockey Pro League.

Leadership Announcement and Reactions

Rajiv Kumar, CEO of Vedanta Kalinga Lancers, expressed confidence in the new leadership duo, saying:“We are delighted to appoint Sanjay and Arthur Van Doren as co-captains ahead of the new HIL season. They embody the perfect blend of youthful enthusiasm, leadership, and international experience. Both led their respective national teams to the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup final recently, a true reflection of their captaincy skills. We are excited and optimistic about the season ahead.

”Reacting to his appointment, Sanjay said,“Leading Vedanta Kalinga Lancers in the Hero Hockey India League is a dream come true for me. I’ve followed this league since childhood, and getting this opportunity is a matter of great pride. Sharing leadership with a player like Arthur is a fantastic learning experience.”

Arthur Van Doren added,“I’m thrilled to take on this responsibility with Vedanta Kalinga Lancers. Captaining in the Hockey India League will be an exciting new chapter in my career. I look forward to working with Sanjay and the entire team for a strong start to the season.

”Vedanta Kalinga Lancers will kick off their Hero HIL 2026 campaign on January 4, 2026, with their opening match against Ranchi Royals in Chennai.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar