The United Kingdom Polo Team beat the pulp out of Indian Navy PC by staggering 16-0 goals in the opening match of the 14th Manipur Polo International 2022 played at Mapal Kangjeibung, Imphal.

The Indian Navy team who is making their debut in the tournament finds the going tough as the United Kingdom riders were much swifter with their ride and making more connection to the goal.

Phil Seller who is a regular visitor in the polo circuit and much more acquainted with the pony, made his mark instantly striking home two goals while teammates Harry Tucker got two more goals and Jack Tucker chipped in with a goal in the first chukker, to send a strong message to the Navy men.

The Indian Navy who is adjusting to the pony find themselves in deep trouble as the United Kingdom bombarded without mercy in the second chuker as well with George Amor and Phil Seller hitting in two goals each while Harry Tucker got one goal to make 10-0 goals in the half time.

The third and fourth chukker proved no better for Indian Navy as they were completely pinned down by the UK riders with Harry Tucker getting three goals while Phil Seller, George Amor and Jack Tucker fetching a goal each for the huge win.

In Wednesday's matches, Indian Navy will take on Indian Polo Association (A) in the first match while Indian Polo Association(Manipur) will meet USA Polo Team in the second match.

Chief Minister N Biren Singh inaugurated the Manipur Polo International, took salute of the team parade and released the tricolour balloon on the occasion.

He also shared to the gathering that four more polo grounds will be developed in Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal and Bishnupur district to bring more youths to the game.

It can be mentioned that the organiser had tried to rope in either South Africa or Singapore as one of the third foreign team for the tournament but travel directives in the backdrop of Covid pandemic restrictions has failed to get a favourable response.