Raipur, Oct 2026 : The Chhattisgarh Hockey League witnessed two thrilling encounters on Saturday, with Nyayd hani Knights registering a remarkable comeback to defeat Sanskardhani Strikers 5-3, while Chakradhar Champions edged past Rajdhani Royals 4-3 to strengthen their bid for a semi-final berth.
Deputy Chief Minister and Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Arun Sao attended the matches for the second consecutive day. He encouraged the players and presented awards to outstanding performers during the post-match prize distribution ceremony.
Nyayd hani Knights Stage Impressive Comeback
The encounter between Nyayd hani Knights and Sanskardhani Strikers began at a brisk pace, with both teams displaying competitive hockey. Sanskardhani Strikers started aggressively and put their opponents under pressure in the opening quarter.
The Strikers earned two penalty corners during the initial minutes but failed to convert either opportunity. However, Om Kumar Yadav broke the deadlock by expertly deflecting a pass from Jeetu Hemla into the goal, giving Sanskardhani Strikers a 1-0 lead.
Despite taking the early advantage, Sanskardhani Strikers struggled to maintain their momentum. Their inability to capitalise on penalty corners proved costly as Nyayd hani Knights gradually found their rhythm and mounted a strong comeback.
The second quarter completely changed the course of the contest. Sukhved Nirmalkar scored a field goal to bring Nyayd hani Knights level at 1-1. Shadab Ahmed Khan then found the net to put his team ahead.
During this phase, Sanskardhani Strikers goalkeeper Aditya Kumar Netam fell on the field. Nevertheless, Nyayd hani Knights continued to press forward and maintained the intensity of their attacks.
Less than a minute after Shadab's goal, Chirag converted a penalty corner to extend the Knights' advantage. With three goals in the second quarter, Nyayd hani Knights turned the match around and went into half-time leading 3-1.
Sanskardhani Strikers had enjoyed periods of dominance during the first half, but their missed scoring opportunities left them trailing by two goals at the interval.
Late Goals Seal 5-3 Victory
Sanskardhani Strikers attempted to fight their way back into the contest in the third quarter. The team earned another penalty corner but again failed to convert the opportunity.
They subsequently won a penalty stroke, which Ashish Tani Purti converted successfully to reduce the deficit to 3-2 and revive his team's hopes.
Nyayd hani Knights responded quickly. Chirag scored his second goal of the match through a penalty corner, restoring his team's two-goal cushion at 4-2.
The contest remained intense in the final stages as Ashish Tani Purti scored again for Sanskardhani Strikers, bringing the score to 4-3 and setting up a tense finish.
However, Sonu struck the decisive fifth goal for Nyayd hani Knights, putting the result beyond doubt. The Knights eventually secured a hard-fought 5-3 victory, registering their second win of the tournament.
Chirag was named Player of the Match for his impressive performance, while Ashish Tani Purti of Sanskardhani Strikers received the Striker of the Match award.
Chakradhar Champions Defeat Rajdhani Royals 4-3
In the other Saturday fixture, Chakradhar Champions defeated Rajdhani Royals 4-3 in a closely contested encounter to record their second consecutive victory in the Chhattisgarh Hockey League.
Parampreet Singh played a key role in the Champions' success, scoring twice through penalty corners. His contribution proved crucial in helping his side secure the three points from the match.
For Rajdhani Royals, Roshan scored one goal, but the team's efforts were not enough to prevent defeat.
The loss marked Rajdhani Royals' second consecutive defeat, leaving them under pressure as the competition progresses. In contrast, Chakradhar Champions have won both their matches and strengthened their chances of reaching the semi-finals.
With teams competing for places in the knockout stage, the latest results have added further significance to the upcoming fixtures.
Deputy CM Arun Sao Encourages Players
Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao attended the league matches for the second day in a row and encouraged the participating teams. Following the conclusion of the matches, he felicitated players who delivered outstanding performances during the presentation ceremony.
His presence highlighted the state's focus on promoting sports and providing encouragement to hockey players competing in the tournament.
Two Crucial Matches Scheduled for Sunday
The Chhattisgarh Hockey League will continue on Sunday, October 25, with two important fixtures that could influence the semi-final race.
The schedule is as follows:
5:30 pm: Nyayd hani Knights vs Bailadila Bulls
7:30 pm: Rajdhani Royals vs Mainpat Titans
The results will be significant for teams seeking to strengthen their positions in the tournament. The clash against Mainpat Titans will be particularly important for Rajdhani Royals, who will be looking to recover from two successive defeats and revive their campaign.
Meanwhile, Nyayd hani Knights will aim to carry their winning momentum into their next match after their impressive comeback victory over Sanskardhani Strikers.
With Chakradhar Champions winning both their opening matches and other teams battling to stay in contention, the Chhattisgarh Hockey League promises more competitive action as the race for the semi-finals intensifies.
