LONDON: A two-match bilateral Polo Tournament between Pakistan and UK Armies ended in a draw after two hard-fought matches. Pakistan and UK Armies played at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst on 30 June and at Guards Polo Club Windsor on 2 July.
The first match of the tournament was won by Pakistan Army 6 to 5 ½ and the second match was won by UK Army 6 ½ to 6.
Over 500 guests including prominent British friends of Pakistan, Pakistani diaspora in UK, military officers and officers of Pakistan High Commission London along with families attended the two friendly matches.
The two matches promoted goodwill, cooperation and friendship between the two countries. It was the first time that the Pakistan anthem was played in Royal Military Academy Sandhurst along with the hoisting of the Pakistani flag.
Commandant Royal Military Academy Sandhurst said that Pakistani cadets have won the most overseas awards in Sandhurst in the last several years. Their 23 awards are second to none. He appreciated the professional aptitude and diligence of the Pakistanis.
The event at Sandhurst was attended by British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriot as well. Commentary of the match was done by world renowned sports commentator Simon Ledger and Colonel Taimur Rahat Army and Air Adviser to UK.
It was also the first time that Pakistan team played at the famed Guards Polo Club in Windsor which is considered as the most elite venue of international polo. After the end of the match, members of the Pakistani diaspora paid rich tributes to the Pakistan Army for their services and professionalism.
They also expressed their appreciation for the wonderful arrangements and the excellent sportsmanship displayed in the two matches. Representatives of the Pakistani diaspora presented an oil painting to the Chairman Guards Polo Club as a gesture of solidarity and cooperation.
Lieutenant General Retired Khalid Zia Chairman Pakistan Polo Association and Major General Retired Darrell Amison CBE, Chief Executive Officer Army Sport of the UK Army were also present.
Pakistan High Commission in London is also facilitating in organising Skiing, Mountaineering, Trekking and Cricket championships between Pakistan and British Armies, in the near future.
