Asem Bhakta
Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: Manipur’s polo team has lifted the 15th Manipur Polo International 2025 Trophy with a convincing 8-5 win over Columbia in the final played at Mapa Kanejibung, Imphal, on November 29, 2025.
Match Highlights:
– _First Chukkar_: Manipur took an early lead with Bon Bon scoring in the 4th minute, but Columbia equalized through Bimol. Bon Bon scored again to give Manipur a 2-1 lead.
– _Second Chukkar_: Manipur’s Atangba Bon Bon and Pradeep scored one goal each, while denying Columbia any goal, taking the lead to 5-1.
– _Third Chukkar_: Alejandro Puyana scored for Columbia, but Pradeep added another goal for Manipur, ending the chukkar 6-2 in favor of Manipur.
– _Final Chukkar_: Manipur scored two more goals through Bon Bon and Rohit, but Columbia staged a late comeback, scoring three goals, ultimately falling short 8-5.
Awards and Recognition:
– Manipur team received a cheque of Rs 2,00,000 and the trophy.
– Columbia team received Rs 1,50,000 as runners-up and a trophy.
– Bon Bon emerged as the highest goal scorer with 19 goals.
Team’s Winning Journey:
– Chhatisgarh: Manipur won 9-4
– India A (IPA): Manipur won 11-7
– Columbia: Manipur won 10-3
– USA: Manipur won 7-4
– Final: Manipur won 8-5 against Columbia
Team Members:
– T Pradeep Kumar (Capt)
– L Atangba
– L Rohit
– T Leishemba
– S Saolin
– S Bon Bon
– Coach: S Girimohan
– Manager: K Dhanachandra Sharma
The victory marks a proud moment for Manipur’s polo team, showcasing their skill and determination.
