India B team (Manipur) lifts 8th Manipur Polo International
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, November 29 2014 : Last year's champion, India-B (Manipur) team today lifted the winner's title in the 8th Manipur Polo International, 2014 by defeating South Africa by 7-5 score here at the historic Mapal Kangjeibung (Imphal Pologround) on Saturday.

.POjit of Manipur exhibited the highest scoring with a record 5 goals against the opponent South Africa team that was adjudged winners-up title of the tournament organized in connection with the Sangai Festival, 2014 .

Teams from Poland, USA, France, Thailand, Mongolia, England and South Africa participate in the international tournament, while India-A and India-B teams represent the country.

It may be mentioned here that all players in India-B team are Manipuris.

India B team (Manipur)

In the closing function of the 8th Manipur Polo International held today, Governor Dr KK Paul attended as chief guest.

Addressing the function, Governor Dr KK Paul said, "No doubt Manipur has given polo to the world and it is a matter of no mean pride.

Besides encouraging tourism and sports, saving the polo pony is also an objective of the tournament.

The polo pony of Manipur, a recognised breed of India though small is sturdy and agile" .

He said the present polo originated from the traditional Manipuri polo�Sagol Kangjei�and Polo as played in Manipur in the past had its own rules known as 'Kangjeirol.' "You will find it interesting that the Manipuri Polo International, a tournament approved by the Indian Polo Association is the only 'one of its kind' played on pony," the Governor said.

South Africa team

The tournament is unique not only because it is played on Manipuri pony but it is also played at the historic oldest polo ground in the world�Mapal Kangjeibung or Imphal Pologround, he said.

This year's tournament has its own significance and flavour because it marks the historic milestone of 150 years of Manipur Polo Team visiting Kolkata in January 1864, Dr Paul said.

He said that renewed efforts need to be made to save this breed from extinction.

Dr Paul said he hoped this tournament will help in highlighting this issue and lead to a more concerted effort to save the animal.

The Governor said it is very encouraging that the Manipur Government has taken the initiative to establish a Pony Sanctuary at Heingang and a Pony Breeding Farm at Lamphel in Imphal West.

Ministers, MLAs, Manipur High Court Judges Justice N Kotiswar and Justice Kh Nobin, Chief Post Master General, NE Circle, PK Swain and MHRPA president S Budhachandra were also present at the occasion.