Chandigarh Polo Club has marked a successful conclusion to the Maharaja Ranjit Singh National Polo Tournament, with 61 Cavalry emerging victorious against the Indian Navy by a score of 4-1. The tournament, organized by the Indian Polo Association, took place at the Chandigarh Polo Club and showcased a week filled with thrilling matches that culminated in a dramatic final.
The championship match began with an electrifying start as Indian Navy’s Dhruv Pal Godara scored an early goal just two minutes into play, thanks to an impressive assist from Captain AP Singh. This gave the Navy a 1-0 advantage at the end of the first chakkar (round). However, the momentum shifted in the second round, where Major Anant Raj Purohit of 61 Cavalry netted the equalizer. The Indian Navy had an opportunity to retake the lead with a missed 25-yard penalty, which proved to be a pivotal moment. In the dying seconds of the chakkar, Lt Col Vishal Chauhan maneuvered expertly to put 61 Cavalry ahead with a goal, ending the round at 2-1.
As the match progressed into the final chakkar, both teams displayed remarkable skill and determination, engaging in an intense back-and-forth. With only a minute left on the clock, Lt Col Chauhan delivered a stunning 25-yard shot that found the back of the net, sealing the victory for 61 Cavalry with a final score of 4-1.
The trophy presentation saw Lt Major Manoj Kumar Katiyar, GOC-in-C of the Western Command, honoring the winning and runner-up teams, as well as other participants, in a ceremony attended by Chandigarh Polo Club’s President Dilpreet Singh Sidhu and Secretary Col Manoj Dewan. During his speech, Sidhu expressed his satisfaction with the successful hosting of the tournament and highlighted the rejuvenated interest in polo within the city and surrounding region.
He reaffirmed the club’s commitment to developing the sport and indicated plans for another polo season in April of next year, aspiring to attract teams from across the nation, further enhancing the profile of polo in Chandigarh. This successful tournament has not only showcased the skills of the participating teams but also the potential for polo to thrive in the region with continued support and enthusiasm from local administration and sports enthusiasts.
