Imphal, Feb 16 (.) Ibudhou Pakhangba Polo Club opened the 4th Chittamohini State Women’s Polo Cup 2026 with a resounding 8–1 victory over Manipur Police Sports Club at the historic Imphal Polo Ground on Monday.
Organised by the Manipur Horse Riding & Polo Association (MHRPA), the tournament began with Ibudhou Pakhangba (yellow) asserting control from the outset against Manipur Police (red).
The winners dictated tempo and territory in the first chukker, racing to a 3–0 lead through cohesive passing, swift transitions, and precise finishing, while their defence effectively shut down counter-moves.
Momentum remained firmly with Ibudhou Pakhangba in the second chukker as they stretched the margin to 4–0. Manipur Police attempted to recalibrate their midfield structure and launch counter-attacks, but disciplined marking and superior positioning nullified their advances.
The third chukker further underlined the gulf in execution. A fifth goal extended the lead, with Ibudhou Pakhangba showcasing refined ball control, tactical spacing, and controlled riding to penetrate defensive gaps.
The final chukker confirmed their dominance. Three additional goals highlighted their stamina and attacking depth. Manipur Police managed a solitary consolation strike, but the outcome was never in doubt as the match concluded 8–1.
Y. Ranita spearheaded the scoring with four goals, while Felicia added two. S. Ngounu and Shira contributed one goal each. H. Pigo Devi scored the lone goal for Manipur Police Sports Club.
The match was officiated by mounted umpires Kh. Kakeshwar and Kh. Chandrakumar. K. Dhiren Singh served as scorer, with S. Umananda Sharma as timekeeper.
Earlier, the tournament was inaugurated in a formal ceremony. Chief Guest Prof. Chungkham Sheelaramani, retired Principal of D.M. College of Arts under Dhanamanjuri University, emphasised that Sagol Kangjei—polo—embodies the civilisational ethos of Manipur.
She described the women’s tournament as a testament to the resilience and identity of Manipuri women, urging collective efforts to safeguard the State’s cultural and sporting heritage.
Reaffirming that polo originated in Manipur, she called the sport a source of enduring pride and noted that its global recognition reflects the region’s historical and cultural depth. She further observed that indigenous games historically strengthened society, fostering discipline, defence preparedness, and diplomatic ties across Asia.
Highlighting the legacy of Manipuri women in governance, culture, sports, and even cavalry units in earlier eras, she stressed the need for regular tournaments to nurture women players. She also announced a personal contribution toward the Best Player award.
MHRPA President Hawaibam Deleep stated that the association’s members continue voluntary efforts to protect the indigenous Manipuri pony and promote polo.
He acknowledged the sponsorship of Ningthoukhongjam Chittamohini of Uripok for supporting women’s polo and noted that, while men’s polo has a strong base, women’s teams remain limited.
He appealed for sustained public backing to expand participation and conserve the traditional sport.
The knockout-format tournament features five teams. The semi-finals, scheduled for tomorrow, will see Imphal Riding Club face Ibudhou Pakhangba Polo Club, while Assam Rifles Women’s Polo Team meet Chingkheihunba Polo Club.
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