THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR,
JANUARY 26, 2026
Hyderabad
Toofans capped off a spirited Hero Hockey India League 2025-26 campaign by
clinching the bronze medal after edging past HIL GC 4-3 in a pulsating
third-place playoff at the iconic Kalinga Hockey Stadium on Monday. In a match
packed with pace, skill and drama, the Toofans showcased nerves of steel to
emerge victorious in a high-scoring encounter.
Amandeep
Lakra proved to be the hero of the night, striking twice in crucial moments,
while Nilakanta Sharma and Jacob Anderson also found the back of the net for
Hyderabad. HIL GC fought valiantly through braces from Sam Ward and a late
penalty-corner conversion by Kane Russell, but ultimately fell short. The win
also underlined Hyderabad Toofans’ dominance over HIL GC this season,
maintaining a flawless head-to-head record.
The Toofans
began with authority, controlling possession and piling pressure through
frequent circle entries. Despite their dominance, it was HIL GC who struck
first against the run of play, with Sam Ward opening the scoring in the 14th
minute. Hyderabad, however, remained composed and responded with intent.
Nilakanta Sharma restored parity with a fierce tomahawk in the 24th minute
before Amandeep Lakra converted a penalty corner to give his side a deserved
2–1 lead at halftime.
Hyderabad
extended their advantage early in the third quarter as Jacob Anderson redeemed
an earlier miss to make it 3–1. Though HIL GC mounted a late comeback, reducing
the margin twice in the final quarter, Lakra’s second drag-flick goal ensured
the Toofans stayed ahead. Solid defensive discipline in the closing minutes
sealed a memorable 4-3 win and a well-earned bronze medal.
