2 exhibition matches mark polo season opening in city

The Indian Polo Association formally inaugurated its annual calendar by playing two exhibition matches at the Chandigarh Polo Club, Khuda Lahora today. The season was inaugurated by Chandigarh Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav in the presence of club and Indian Polo Association officials. The key feature of this season will be Maharaja Ranjit Singh Trophy, wherein teams from country’s prestigious clubs and defence services will be participating, starting from December 2.

Dilpreet Singh Sidhu, president, Chandigarh Polo Association, said that for the first time the Indian Polo Association had given Chandigarh the hosting of its two official seasons. The Zorawar Singh Cup will also be played here. The second season will be held in Chandigarh from March 30 to April 5 next year.

Sidhu said that eight teams were competing for the trophy, of which five teams were from defence services. These include 61 Cavalry, Army Service Corps, Remount and Veterinary Corps, Artillery and Indian Navy. Apart from these, Rajasthan Polo Club, Hyderabad Polo and Riding Club and the host team, Chandigarh Polo Club, are in the contention. All teams are divided into two pools. The final matches of both categories will be played on December 7.

Meanwhile, in the first match, Calvalries beat Le Corbusier 8-4, and in the following match Lancers outclassed Chandigarh Polo Club 10-8.