Can Haryana and Delhi Outsmart Manipur in Sepak Takraw Finals?
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Synopsis
In a stunning upset at the Khelo India Beach Games 2025, Haryana and Delhi triumphed over the Sepak Takraw giants, Manipur, in thrilling finals. Captains Monika and Sandeep led their teams with extraordinary skill and strategy, showcasing the rise of new talent in Indian sports.
Key Takeaways
- Haryana and Delhi secured gold in Sepak Takraw finals.
- A thrilling upset against Manipur, a long-time powerhouse.
- Weather changes played a crucial role in the matches.
- Both teams emphasized rigorous training and strategy.
- Bronze medals went to Nagaland, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Tamil Nadu.
Diu, May 21 (NationPress) In a remarkable turn of events, Haryana and Delhi achieved impressive victories against the formidable Sepak Takraw team from Manipur in both the men's and women's trio finals at the Khelo India Beach Games 2025 on Wednesday.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Ghoghla beach, the finals experienced an hour-long delay due to rainfall.
In the women's final, Haryana secured a 2-1 triumph over the experienced Manipur team, known as a powerhouse in Indian Sepak Takraw. With 20-year-old captain Monika leading the charge, the Haryana squad displayed a blend of enthusiasm and youthful energy to seize the gold. "I am thrilled to bring this victory home for the team and win the gold. We recognized their strength but maintained our composure," stated Monika post-match.
She attributed their success to intense outdoor training sessions in towns like Charkhi Dadri, Bhiwani, and Rohtak. "Practicing on outdoor courts helped us adapt to the beach environment. This experience will significantly enhance our performance," she added.
Meanwhile, in the men's showdown, Delhi triumphed over Manipur with a score of 2-1. Team captain Sandeep Kumar, aged 35, highlighted how the sudden weather change played a pivotal role. "We lost the first regu before the rain, but then the conditions shifted in our favor," said Sandeep, who trains near Majnu Ka Tila alongside the Yamuna River in the capital.
"The Khelo India Beach Games present an incredible opportunity. We arrived with a definitive aim to secure gold. Manipur has always been a tough competitor, but we are equally strong. Both teams have a history of sharing national golds," he remarked.
The two unexpected victories resulted in silver medals for Manipur.
Nagaland and Uttar Pradesh claimed bronze in the women's event, while Assam and Tamil Nadu took home bronze in the men's category.
Results:
Team Trio
Men: Final: Delhi 2-1 Manipur; Bronze: Assam, Tamil Nadu
Women: Final: Haryana 2-1 Manipur; Bronze: Uttar Pradesh, Nagaland
Point of View
I observe the remarkable rise of Haryana and Delhi in Sepak Takraw, challenging the long-standing dominance of Manipur. This shift not only highlights the growing competitiveness in Indian sports but also emphasizes the importance of nurturing talent across regions. Such developments are crucial for the progress of sports in India.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the Sepak Takraw finals at Khelo India Beach Games 2025?
Haryana and Delhi won the women's and men's Sepak Takraw finals, respectively, defeating Manipur.
What was the score in the women's final?
Haryana won the women's final against Manipur with a score of 2-1.
How did the weather affect the matches?
The matches experienced an hour-long break due to rain, which changed the conditions for the players.
Which teams won bronze in the Sepak Takraw tournament?
Nagaland and Uttar Pradesh won bronze in the women's event, while Assam and Tamil Nadu claimed bronze in the men's event.
What training methods did the Haryana team use?
The Haryana team trained rigorously on outdoor courts in towns like Charkhi Dadri, Bhiwani, and Rohtak, which helped them adapt to the beach surface.
