Bhubaneswar, Jan. 17: Midfielder Vickram Kanth, 26, will lead Kalinga Lancers, the team from Odisha, in the third edition of the Hockey India League (HIL).

The home team will take on Ranchi Rays on January 22 in the inaugural HIL match here. 'We have practised well under guidance of the new coach, and we are hopeful of putting up an impressive show in the tournament,' said Vickram during unveiling of the team jersey here at a news conference.

Roshan Minz, the only player from the state in the team, has been appointed as the vice-captain. 'We will definitely perform better with the support of our home fans,' said 27-year-old Minz.

Players of the home team will don an orange and white jersey. Besides, the franchise today also unveiled the trophy to be presented to the best player in each of the five matches to be played in the city.

'The golden trophy has been moulded like a player with a hockey stick in his hands. The trophy, which the Kalinga Lancers have introduced for home matches, is one-of-a-kind,' said a franchise official.

Kalinga Lancers had finished last at the points' table in second edition of HIL.

'We are confident of a better performance this time,' said Vishal Dev, chairman of the Odisha Sports Development and Promotion Company that owns the team.

'There would be fireworks and a laser show during the inaugural ceremony. We are also planning to bring a Bollywood artiste to take part in the event,' said a franchise official.