Lahore (Abdul Basit): The Lahore Polo Club’s historic grounds came alive with colour, competition, and class as the Lahore Smart City Polo in Pink Cup 2025 roll into action with three exhilarating matches on its opening day. The day saw impressive victories for Rijas/Din, SQ Seagold, and Samba Bank, setting the tone for what promises to be a thrilling tournament ahead.
The event drew a vibrant crowd of families, polo enthusiasts, and dignitaries, creating a festive atmosphere at the Lahore Polo Club. Club President Malik Azam Hayat Noon, executive committee members, and other distinguished guests were also present to witness the high-octane contests that celebrated both sporting excellence and community spirit.
In the first match, Rijas/Din displayed exceptional teamwork and precision to overpower Zacky Farms by 9–5. For the winners, Raja Samiullah was in sublime form, scoring five goals, while Mohib Shahzad added three and Sheikh Muhammad Raffay contributed one. From the opposing side, Mumtaz Abbas Niazi netted three goals, with Faisal Khan and Shah Shamyl Alam scoring one apiece.
The second encounter saw a dominant performance from SQ Seagold, who registered a commanding 13–3.5 victory over Guard Group. Ibrahim Khalil was the star performer with five goals, while Muhammad Ali Malik struck three. Nada Gharib and Shaukat Ali Malik added two goals each, sealing an emphatic team triumph. For Guard Group, Arib Ali Malik scored the only field goal, while they also enjoyed a 2.5-goal handicap advantage.
The day’s final match proved the most gripping, as Samba Bank edged past Pebble Breaker in a thrilling 8–6 encounter. Veteran player Saqib Khan Khakwani once again showcased his polo mastery, scoring five goals, while Alman Jalil Azam contributed three crucial strikes to secure the win. For Pebble Breaker, Ahmed Ali Tiwana top-scored with three goals, and Abdul Rehman Monnoo and Eleanor added one goal each in a spirited but unsuccessful chase.
The action continues on Tuesday (21st October 2025) with four important matches scheduled, promising another exciting day of top-class polo under the Lahore autumn skies.
SUMMARY
MATCH 1
Rijas/Din def. Zacky Farms by 9–5
Rijas/Dean: Raja Samiullah 5, Moheb Shehzad 3, Rafay Sheikh 1
Zacky Farms: Mumtaz Abbas Niazi 3, Faisal Khan 1, Shah Shamyl Alam 1
MATCH 2
SQ Seagold def. Guard Group by 13–3.5
SQ Seagold: Ibrahim Khalil 5, Muhammad Ali Malik 3, Nadra Gareeb 2, Shaukat Ali Malik 2
Guard Group: Aarib Ali Malik 1 + 2.5 handicap
MATCH 3
Samba Bank def. Pebble Breaker by 8–6
Samba Bank: Saqib Khan Khakwani 5, Alman Jalil Azam 3
Pebble Breaker: Ahmed Ali Tiwana 3, Abdul Rehman Monnoo 1, Eleanor 1.
English