Watching a polo game played by experienced players at Imphal Pologround is a treat to the eyes. Horses galloping fast and rider hitting the ball towards the goal line, chased by rival team, it is really thrilling. Manipur campaign as the creator of the game has been fruitful. That has been proved by the participation of too many foreign teams in the International Polo Tournament held at the historic Imphal Pologround. In all the international level polo tournament held in Imphal so far, Manipur turned out to be victorious team. There was no stiff challenge from the outside teams. This year the victory may not be as smooth as it used to be. Some of the outside teams are playing wonderfully well. Indian Team A played exceptionally well. The manner with which it outclassed Thailand team convincingly in the four chukker game reveals maturity of the team. The riders hit the ball like expert batsmen hitting the ball in the cricket game. They could easily connect with the ball. Dealing with the Indian team A may be a difficult job. But time will tell how our expert polo players show its skill when the team fights against the rival having the same expertise. Some of the riders played the game of polo like football. Instead of hitting the ball they stopped it and galloped towards the goal line. The follow up player steadily hit the ball which was lying inert. Goal came easy to such player, who had already rushed towards the goal line. What is required is the understanding between the players. Such technique of player leaving behind the ball and galloping fast to confuse the rival player can be used when the players practise together for prolonged period of time under the guidance of well trained coach. If there is a good supplier pushing the ball at the goal line will also be easy. Football has scorer. But in polo it seems all players are expected to play both the role of defenders and scorers. Only four players on a side and they cover the entire stretch of the field. That reveals the speed of the game. And all games that move fast are interesting to see. Having seen the game on the inaugural day all the matches will be seen. If Manipur enter final there will be a massive turn out of spectators and they will fill the Imphal Pologround. The organisers will need to think over the matter. Extra care has to be taken to ensure that no one returns home frustrated without being able to have a glimpse of the final match that may take place on November 29. Whoever, whichever organisation extending help in the organisation of the international polo tournament in Imphal deserves appreciation from all. Minus their financial assistance the possibility of holding such tournament, which is quite expensive would not have been possible at all. Our thinking however is Manipur campaign as the creator of the game must continue until such a time the best team in the world express their desire to have a feel of Manipur pologround and pony, the original horse of the game. Let us see when that happens.
Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/interesting-polo-game/
