The city of Ludhiana witnessed a thrilling display of young sporting talent this week, with two major events highlighting the future of Indian sports. The ASMITA Basketball 3x3 League 2025-26 under the Khelo India initiative crowned its girls' champion, while a prestigious under-21 hockey tournament made a grand return.
Guru Nanak Club Dominates Basketball Finals
In a powerful performance, the Guru Nanak Club emerged victorious in the girls' category of the ASMITA Basketball 3x3 League 2025-26. The team dominated the final day of competition held on Monday and Tuesday at the Guru Nanak Stadium in Ludhiana. The event featured teams from across Ludhiana districts and was organized jointly by the Punjab Basketball Association and the Sports Authority of India (SAI).
The final standings saw Guru Nanak Club finish first, with Ludhiana-I securing the runner-up position and Khalsa Club claiming third place. The decisive matches on the final day unfolded as follows:
- Ludhiana-I defeated Khalsa Club with a score of 18-10.
- Guru Nanak Club overpowered Khalsa Club 21-7.
- In the crucial match, Guru Nanak Club beat Ludhiana-I 21-16 to seal the title.
- Khalsa Club also topped Khalsa Club-II in a 9-3 game.
Coaches and Officials Laud Young Talent
The skill and dedication of the young athletes were highly praised by coaches and officials present. Coaches Jaiapal Singh and Saloni expressed their pride in the players' performances. Rajdeep Singh Gill, President of the Punjab Basketball Association, and Secretary Teja Singh Dhaliwal also commended the participants. The closing ceremony saw the distribution of trophies and medals to the deserving winners, marking a successful conclusion to the league.
Historic Hockey Tournament Returns After Seven Years
In another significant sporting development, the eighth All-India Jagtar Singh Memorial Hockey Tournament for under-21 players began on Tuesday. The event is being held at the Prithipal Hockey Stadium, Punjab Agricultural University, and will run through Saturday. This tournament holds special significance as it continues the legacy of the 35-edition All-India Major Bhupinder Singh Hockey Tournament, returning after a gap of seven years.
The opening day set an exciting tone for the competition with the following results:
- Hockey Academy Sangrur beat Ludhiana XI 3-1. Man of the Match: Japneet Singh.
- Hockey Training Center Rampur defeated Chandigarh XI 6-1. Man of the Match: Harpreet.
- SAI Kurukshetra topped Namdhari XI 2-1. Man of the Match: Bittu.
Inauguration and Incentives for Players
The tournament was formally inaugurated by Amardeep Singh Rai, Deputy Inspector General of Traffic Police, and Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor of Punjab Agricultural University. To encourage outstanding performances, cash prizes and medals were awarded to the standout player from each game on the very first day.
These concurrent events in Ludhiana underscore Punjab's vibrant sporting culture and its commitment to nurturing young talent through platforms like Khelo India. They provide crucial competitive exposure to aspiring athletes in basketball and hockey, paving the way for the next generation of champions.
