India B (Manipur) Triumphs Over Colombia 8–5 to Win 15th Manipur International Polo Tournament

Imphal — India B (Manipur) lifted the title of the 15th Manipur International Polo Tournament after defeating Colombia 8–5 in a thrilling final played at the historic Imphal Polo Ground on Saturday.

The championship match, which marked the conclusion of the seven-day tournament, was attended by Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and the First Lady. The event formed a key highlight of the Manipur Sangai Festival 2025, underway since November 21.

Governor Bhalla kicked off the final by throwing in the ball and later released the official souvenir of the tournament. Spectators were treated to an exciting contest as India B (Manipur) delivered a strong performance to secure the win.

This year’s edition gained added significance as it returned after a two-year break caused by ethnic unrest in the state. The revived tournament saw participation from both national and international teams, including squads from the US, Colombia, India A (Indian Polo Association), India B (Manipur), and India C (Chhattisgarh).

The Governor and the First Lady presented prizes to the winners and other participating teams, praising their talent and sportsmanship before officially declaring the tournament closed.

Officials highlighted the event’s role in showcasing Manipur’s deep equestrian roots and its historical identity as the birthplace of modern polo. Manipur Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel also reiterated the government’s plans to expand the sport by upgrading facilities, attracting international coaches, and hosting more global competitions in collaboration with tourism and development agencies.

Widely considered one of the world’s oldest polo grounds, Mapal Kangjeibung once again served as a proud symbol of Manipur’s enduring polo tradition.

With inputs from IANS