After a successful T-20 cricket tournament, residents of Rawalpindi and neighbouring Islamabad had another sporting event to enjoy-- the 108th MP Bhandara Polo Cup. The event which concluded on Saturday was organised by the Murree Brewery Company and started on April 7.
Ten clubs participated in the tournament, with Master Tiles losing out to Security 2000 in Saturday’s final at the Rawalpindi Polo Club (RPC).
Murree Brewery Chief Executive Isphandyar Bhandara, foreign dignitaries and a large number of polo fans had come to watch the final, with US Ambassador Cameron Munter serving as the chief guest.
Security 2000 defeated Master Tiles 3 - 3 ½. In the first chukker, Raja Taimur Nadeem from Security 2000 secured a half goal, while Master Tiles were held scoreless. In the second chukkar, Raja Samiullah of Master Tiles banged in two goals, which were well appreciated by the audience. However, Nadeem pegged back a goal for Security 2000.
The third chukkar saw Master Tiles go scoreless again, but Nadeem (from Security 2000) scored another goal. In the final chukkar, Raja Samiullah took Master Tiles ahead with an early goal, but the result was settled when Nadeem banged in the winner midway through the chukker.
A delighted Nadeem, who was also the top scorer in the tournament, said “This kind of tournament should be held on a regular basis in order to boost the game in the country.”
Nadeem, an Islamabad-based professional polo player, said that there is tremendous talent in Pakistan, especially youngsters, but they need guidance. “I believe if tournaments are regularly held, many youngsters would come through in polo,” he added.
The week-long event was well-enjoyed by spectators and fans. “It has been a great weekend and I really enjoyed the final… and in summer I hope to go to Gilgit-Baltistan to see the Shandur Polo Festival,” said Adnan Ali.
Nadia Khalid, another spectator, was also happy with the event, citing a dire need to revive sports in the country. “This is the second successful event in the city after the T-20 tournament. These are the steps in right direction.”
Published in The Express Tribune, April 15th, 2012.
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