Chitral teams set for Skardu polo final clash today

For the first time in history, the final of the Ali Sher Khan Anchan Polo Tournament will see two Chitral teams competing against each other on Monday. The tournament's final match was held at Skardu's Maqpoon Polo Ground on Saturday. In the first semi-final, Chitral Booni emerged victorious over Skardu Green, while the second semi-final saw Chitral Winds Eagle defeating Gilgit Red.

A total of 20 polo teams participated in the competition, including 18 from Gilgit-Baltistan and two from Chitral. The event, organized by the Skardu administration, attracted thousands of polo enthusiasts, tourists, and supporters. Freestyle polo, a traditional sport in both Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan, remains popular throughout the region.

Polo is deeply ingrained in the local culture, with competitions held in every district. The sport has historical significance, with teams from Gilgit-Baltistan previously participating in international matches in New Delhi and other cities. The Skardu Deputy Commissioner highlighted the event's impact on local tourism, with the GB polo team lifting the Shandur Polo Festival title in July just a year after the Chitral teams clinched their place in the final.