CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The 36th All India Postal Hockey Tournament was inaugurated at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium in Bhopal, with special guest and former Olympic player, Director Syed Jalaluddin Rizvi, gracing the occasion. In the opening match on the first day, host team Madhya Pradesh registered an exciting 5-2 victory over Tamil Nadu. In the second match, Karnataka defeated Maharashtra 5-3.
In the match between Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, Mohammad Umar scored the first goal through a penalty stroke in the 14th minute. In the 16th minute of the second quarter, Umar added another field goal, giving Madhya Pradesh a 2-0 lead by halftime. After the break, Aftab Khan scored another field goal in the 36th minute. Tamil Nadu’s A. Albert John reduced the deficit with a field goal in the 38th minute. However, Madhya Pradesh’s Aftab Uddin and Asad Kamal struck goals in the 47th and 56th minutes, respectively, while Tamil Nadu’s N. Naveen Kumar scored a field goal. Madhya Pradesh emerged victorious with a 5-2 win.
In the second match, Karnataka faced Maharashtra. Karnataka dominated from the start, with Ramesh HT scoring three goals in the 14th, 24th, and 42nd minutes. In the 47th minute, Karnataka converted a penalty corner through Vinayak Bijwad. Maharashtra’s Sanket and Syed Aslam each scored a goal, but Karnataka’s Taranath BG sealed the win with another goal in the 52nd minute, securing a 5-3 victory for Karnataka.
At the opening ceremony, Chief Postmaster General of Madhya Pradesh Postal Circle, Vineet Mathur, remarked that Bhopal is known as a nursery of hockey, having produced numerous national and international players who have brought pride to the city, state, and country. He highlighted the state government’s efforts to develop hockey, including the construction of five astroturfs in Bhopal to encourage players further.
Chief Guest Vandita Kaul, Secretary of the Postal Department, visiting from Delhi, shared her personal connection to hockey, stating that the sport teaches teamwork, respect, and harmony. Special guest and former international hockey player Syed Jalaluddin Rizvi emphasized Bhopal’s legacy as a hockey stronghold, referencing major tournaments like the Obaidullah Cup held at the Aishbagh Stadium. He urged players to view sports not just as a career path but as a means to lead the nation. Rizvi also commended the efforts of the Postal Department and state and central governments in promoting sports and encouraged players to take full advantage of these opportunities.
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