The Indian Army polo team emerged victorious with an impressive 13-10 win over the US Military in a thrilling arena polo game held at Lakeside Polo Club, Sacramento, California, on October 5, 2024. This marks India’s triumphant return to international arena polo after a five-year hiatus, with their last appearance being in 2019.
The Indian Army team, composed of Lt Col Prithvi Singh, Lt Col Yatinder Kumar, Maj Mrityunjay Singh, and reserve player Lt Col RK Gautam, displayed exceptional horsemanship against the US Military’s mixed team of personnel from the Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps. Despite being the underdogs, the Indian officers demonstrated incredible determination and teamwork to outplay the favored US team.
Maj Mrityunjay Singh sustained an injury during the second chukker but bravely continued to play before being substituted by Lt Col RK Gautam. The Indian team maintained their lead throughout the four chukkers, securing a three-point victory after a hard-fought game.
Arena polo, known for its challenging smaller and uneven field dimensions (300 feet by 150 feet), tests players’ skills in ball control and horsemanship. Despite these challenges, the Indian Army team executed a remarkable performance, earning praise from their US counterparts for their skill and grit.
Accompanied by Brijesh Mathur, Chef de Mission, and Vikramjit Singh Kahlon, VSM, an official of the Indian Polo Association and the Indian Army, the Indian team’s victory highlights their resilience and skill on the international stage.
