India's polo team visits SA

India's polo team, ranked among the top 10 in the world, has made its way to South Africa for an important training stint ahead of the zone play-offs in Iran. Uday Kalan, the coach of India's national polo team, shed light on the team's decision to train in South Africa due to the extreme weather conditions in India during the summer months which makes it challenging to practice at their peak level. With the season in India running from September to March, the team saw South Africa as the ideal destination with its abundance of horses, fields, and skilled players. This move allows the Indian team to test their skills against strong opponents before facing off against South Africa in the future. The polo culture in India runs deep with a rich heritage dating back centuries, highlighting the country's longstanding connection to the sport. Despite its origins in Persia, polo has flourished in different regions, including North India, where the modern form of the sport enjoys popularity. Notably, polo in India is not just for the elite, with a growing number of players joining the sport, breaking down the elitist barriers traditionally associated with it. On the sponsorship front, challenges have emerged, reflecting the impact of global economic trends on luxury brands that have historically supported polo. However, Uday Kalan remains hopeful that as the economy revives, there will be renewed interest and support from sponsors. As the focus shifts to the upcoming World Cup in Sydney, with India vying for qualification, Colonel Ravi Rathore, a seasoned player with multiple World Cup appearances under his belt, shared insights on the team's preparation and the significance of adapting to new horses quickly. Polo demands discipline, dedication, and horsemanship to excel, with opportunities emerging for aspiring players to enter the sport. The future looks promising as polo gradually sheds its elitist image, welcoming a diverse pool of talent and enthusiasts. With the prospects of success on the horizon, India's polo team is gearing up for the challenges ahead, both in South Africa and on the international stage.