Ranchi Royals are through to the Men’s Hockey India League (HIL) 2026 final after a gripping 3-2 win against Hyderabad Toofans in Qualifier-2 at Bhubaneswar’s Kalinga Hockey Stadium. Star performer Tom Boon lit up the pitch with a hat-trick, scoring in the 13th, 15th, and 34th minutes to propel his team past a resilient opponent.
Hyderabad struck first in the 5th minute when Jacob Anderson converted a superb assist from Rajinder Singh. The young Indian midfielder’s audacious dribble past multiple defenders set up Anderson for an easy deflection goal, putting Toofans ahead 1-0 early on.
Ranchi Royals responded with fury. Two penalty corners in quick succession allowed Boon to unleash his magic—first in the 13th minute, then again at the 15th, both fed by Manpreet Singh’s expert drags. The first quarter ended 2-1 in Ranchi’s favor, injecting thrill into the contest.
A goalless second quarter featured dazzling attacks from both ends, but defenses held strong heading into halftime. Post-interval, Ranchi seized control with Boon’s third goal from yet another penalty corner in the 34th minute, extending the lead to 3-1 after a clever feint past the keeper.
Not to be outdone, Amandeep Lakra ignited hopes for Hyderabad with a stunning strike in the 38th minute, making it 3-2. The last quarter turned into a pressure cooker as Toofans pressed for an equalizer, squandering penalty corner opportunities. Ranchi Royals’ backline stood tall, ensuring a hard-fought win and a final date with Vedanta Kalinga Lancers tomorrow.
Boon’s heroics underline Ranchi Royals’ championship pedigree, promising a blockbuster finale in this prestigious league.
