Thaindian News

Kolkata, Dec 25 (IANS) The Ezra World Cup 2011 marking 150 years of the Calcutta Polo Club — the oldest such in the world — ended Sunday with the home team winning the final match as a colourful ceremony brought the curtain down on the event.

The home team, Calcutta Polo Club (CPC) led by Col. Tarun Sirohi, won the World Masters Challenge defeating the Rest of the World 5-3 with CPC enjoying a half goal handicap.

For CPC, Sirohi, Maj. Ravi Rathore and Carlos Gracida scored each while Maj. Vishal Chauhan scored twice. For the visitors, Gofferedo Rendina scored thrice.

Indian Army chief Gen. V.K. Singh threw in the ball to signal the start of the game. Railway Minister Dinesh Trivedi handed over the winning trophy to Sirohi.

The closing ceremony started with ‘Beat Busters’ by a dance group from the city while soldiers from the 61st Cavalry regiment performed daredevil stunts during the match break.

The army’s pipes and drums band played lively tunes before and after the game.

‘Sagol Kangje’, the traditional form of the sport played in Manipur from which the modern game evolved was performed by players from the northeastern state, giving the audience a glimpse of history.

British officers Major General Joe Shearer and Captain Robert Stewart founded the Calcutta Polo Club In 1861 and the first match was held around Christmas.

A host of celebrities and members of erstwhile royal families from across the country were present to witness the event.