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India Gazette
a day ago
- Sport
- India Gazette
Durand Cup returns to Imphal with a grand trophy tour
Imphal (Manipur)[India], July 11(ANI): Imphal welcomed the 134th Durand Cup trophies with a grand trophy tour as Asia's oldest football tournament returned to Manipur's capital after a gap of two years. The three trophies of the Durand Cup were showcased here at the City Convention Centre in the presence of Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Governor of Manipur, who was the Chief Guest of the event. Also present were Prashant Kumar Singh IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Manipur and senior military leadership, including Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra AVSM SM, Chief of Staff, HQ Eastern Command and Chairman, Durand Cup Organising Committee, Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar AVSM YSM, General Officer Commanding, 3 Corps, Maj Gen SS Karthikeya YSM SM, General Officer Commanding, 57 Mountain Division, Maj Gen Ravroop Singh YSM SM, Inspector General, Assam Rifles (South) and Rajiv Singh IPS -DGP Manipur. The three glittering pieces of silverware, the Durand Cup, the original prize and the rolling Shimla Trophy (presented by residents of Shimla in 1904), as well as the President's Cup, which the winners keep permanently, were unveiled during the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, the Governor of Manipur said, 'Hosting the 134th edition of the Durand Cup tournament once again in Imphal is a testament to our state's deep-rooted passion for football and the collective efforts of both civil and military establishments. I would like to convey my sincere appreciation to the Indian Army, particularly the Eastern Command, for bringing this celebrated tournament back to the football-loving land of Manipur. Sports are an integral part of our state's identity. Manipur has always been at the forefront of sporting excellence, producing national heroes and Olympians who have brought immense pride to the nation. I wish the 134th Edition of the Durand Cup great success. I am confident that it will be bigger, better, and more thrilling than ever before. My heartfelt wishes to all the participating teams. May you play with honour, courage, and passion, inspiring countless young hearts along the way'. Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra shared his thoughts, 'For over 137 years, the Durand Cup has witnessed the evolution of Indian football, producing legends, uniting communities, and igniting passions across generations. In recent years, under the stewardship of Eastern Command, the Durand Cup has experienced remarkable growth in stature, reach and quality. Our efforts, in close partnership with stakeholders across the country, have ensured that the tournament retains its heritage while embracing modern professionalism. I invite the people of this great city, football enthusiasts, and the vibrant youth of Manipur to come forward, be part of history, and experience world-class football at your doorstep. Together, let us celebrate the beautiful game, honour tradition, and inspire the next generation.' Also speaking on the occasion, Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar said, 'The Durand Cup is a tournament steeped in history and tradition, organised under the aegis of the Indian Armed Forces. It serves not only as a celebration of sporting excellence but also as a living tribute to the enduring bond between the military and the people of India. This unique tournament has, over generations, stood as a symbol of camaraderie, discipline, and sportsmanship. I wish to express how truly historic and meaningful it is to witness the Durand Cup, the oldest football tournament in Asia, being hosted once again in the glorious state of Manipur - a land synonymous with resilience, rich culture, and an unshakeable love for football. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Hon'ble Governor, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, for his wholehearted support and backing for the conduct of this year's Durand Cup in Imphal.' The trophy tour started in the morning from Sendra and travelled through Moirang, Bishnupur, Nambol, Keishampat Junction, Singjamei BR, Manipur University, Kangla West Gate, Chingmeirong (War Cemetery) and Lamlong Bazar before arriving at the City Convention Centre. Eight members of the Women's National team from Manipur, including captain Ngangbam Sweety Devi, Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi, Hemam Shilky Devi, Grace Dangmei, Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi and Lynda Serto Kom, who recently qualified for the 2026 AFC Women's Asia Cup, were also present at the roadshow flag off. A total of six matches will be played in Imphal, with the first match scheduled on 30th July. The Khuman Lampak Stadium will host local sides North Eastern Reorganising Cultural Association (NEROCA FC) and Tiddim Road Athletic Union (TRAU FC), who will face each other in the Manipur derby. Real Kashmir FC and the Indian Navy Football Team are the other sides in the group. (ANI)
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Sport
- Hindustan Times
Mohammedan Sporting's secret weapon for the Durand Cup 2025? Dipendu Biswas drops the answer
Durand Cup 2025 will kick off on 23 July, with East Bengal FC facing South United FC at Kolkata's Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan. Dipendu Biswas emphasized the importance of youth development and grassroots football for the future of Indian football.(File Images) The three prestigious trophies, the Durand Cup, the Shimla Trophy, and the President Cup, were unveiled at a befitting ceremony in Shillong by dignitaries, including Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and Air Marshal Surat Singh. The oldest football tournament in Asia and now the official curtain-raiser of the Indian football season, the Durand Cup has grown into a major platform for young talent and early-season team assessments. ALSO READ| Durand Cup: Mohun Bagan edge past Punjab FC in thriller, seal semi-final berth Thus, in this football-wired mood, former India striker and Mohammedan Sporting Club official Dipendu Biswas stressed the tournament's changing responsibility in an exclusive interview with Hindustan 'The Durand Cup is the first major national tournament of the season and one of the country's most traditional tournaments,' said Biswas. 'The country's ISL and I-League teams participate in this tournament. This is a great opportunity for all teams to assess their players. It also gives young players a platform to showcase their talent in competitive football and helps coaches refine the squad accordingly.' Mohammedan Sporting gears up with youth brigade for 2025 Durand Cup This year, 24 teams across ISL, I-League, and the armed forces will battle it out, with Imphal debuting as a new host city alongside returning venues Shillong and Jamshedpur. 'Both Shillong and Kokrajhar have a rich culture of football. Shillong is the home of Lajong. People there will have a new obsession with football,' Biswas told 'With the Durand Cup being held in these three places this year, I think the promotion of football in the Northeast will increase. It's a positive development.' While talking with usm, Biswas recalled his most cherished Durand Cup moment: 'When I was at TFA, I scored a goal against Mohun Bagan in the semi-final during the 1996–1997 season.' 'As the team manager of Mohammedan Sporting Club, it was tough losing both the semi-final and final of the Durand Cup.' ALSO READ| Ignominious exit but Horner gave this F1 team wings On his team's readiness for the 2025 edition, he added, 'Our team is almost ready. This year, we have included a few young players in our squad for the Durand Cup.' 'Support the team, stay with the team, and we have a lot of young talented players who have the ability to play well in the Calcutta League, Durand and ISL. Support them. Hope you will not be disappointed.'
News18
2 days ago
- Sport
- News18
Durand Cup Returns To Manipur's Imphal With Grand Trophy Tour
Imphal celebrated the arrival of the 134th Durand Cup trophies, marking the return of Asia's oldest football tournament to Manipur after two years. Imphal celebrated the arrival of the 134th Durand Cup trophies with a grand trophy tour, marking the return of Asia's oldest football tournament to Manipur's capital after a two-year hiatus. The three trophies were displayed at the City Convention Centre, attended by Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Hon'ble Governor of Manipur, who was the Chief Guest. Also present were Shri Prashant Kumar Singh IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Manipur, and senior military leaders including Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra AVSM SM, Chief of Staff, HQ Eastern Command and Chairman, Durand Cup Organising Committee, Lt Gen Abhijit S. Pendharkar AVSM YSM, General Officer Commanding, 3 Corps, Maj Gen S.S Karthikeya YSM SM, General Officer Commanding, 57 Mountain Division, Maj Gen Ravroop Singh YSM SM, Inspector General, Assam Rifles (South), and Shri Rajiv Singh IPS, DGP Manipur. The displayed trophies included the Durand Cup, the original prize, the rolling Shimla Trophy (presented by residents of Shimla in 1904), and the President's Cup, which the winners keep permanently. Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla remarked, 'Hosting the 134th edition of the Durand Cup tournament once again in Imphal is a testament to our state's deep-rooted passion for football and the collective efforts of both civil and military establishments. I would like to convey my sincere appreciation to the Indian Army, particularly the Eastern Command for bringing this celebrated tournament back to the football-loving land of Manipur. Sports are an integral part of our state's identity. Manipur has always been at the forefront of sporting excellence, producing national heroes and Olympians who have brought immense pride to the nation. I wish the 134th Edition of the Durand Cup great success. I am confident that it will be bigger, better, and more thrilling than ever before. My heartfelt wishes to all the participating teams. May you play with honour, courage, and passion, inspiring countless young hearts along the way". Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra shared, 'For over 137 years, the Durand Cup has witnessed the evolution of Indian football, producing legends, uniting communities, and igniting passions across generations. In recent years, under the stewardship of Eastern Command, the Durand Cup has experienced remarkable growth in stature, reach and quality. Our efforts, in close partnership with stakeholders across the country, have ensured that the tournament retains its heritage while embracing modern professionalism. I invite the people of this great city, football enthusiasts, and the vibrant youth of Manipur to come forward, be part of history, and experience world-class football at your doorstep. Together, let us celebrate the beautiful game, honour tradition, and inspire the next generation." Lt Gen Abhijit S. Pendharkar added, The Durand Cup, is a tournament steeped in history and tradition, organized under the aegis of the Indian Armed Forces. It serves not only as a celebration of sporting excellence but also as a living tribute to the enduring bond between the military and the people of India. This unique tournament has, over generations, stood as a symbol of camaraderie, discipline, and sportsmanship. I wish to express how truly historic and meaningful it is to witness the Durand Cup, the oldest football tournament in Asia, being hosted once again in the glorious state of Manipur – a land synonymous with resilience, rich culture, and an unshakeable love for football. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Hon'ble Governor, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla for his wholehearted support and backing for the conduct of this year Durand Cup in Imphal." The trophy tour commenced in the morning from Sendra, passing through Moirang, Bishnupur, Nambol, Keishampat Junction, Singjamei BR, Manipur University, Kangla West Gate, Chingmeirong (War Cemetery), and Lamlong Bazar before arriving at the City Convention Centre. Eight members of the Women's National team from Manipur, including captain Ngangbam Sweety Devi, Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi, Hemam Shilky Devi, Grace Dangmei, Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi, and Lynda Serto Kom, who recently qualified for the 2026 AFC Women's Asia Cup, were present at the roadshow flag-off. What Durand Cup Matches Will Be Played In Manipur? Six matches will be played in Imphal, with the first match scheduled for 30th July. The Khuman Lampak Stadium will host local teams NEROCA FC and TRAU FC in the Manipur derby. Real Kashmir FC and the Indian Navy Football Team are also in the group. view comments Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Malaysia Sun
3 days ago
- Sport
- Malaysia Sun
Durand Cup trophies showcased as Shillong gears up to host tournament for second consecutive year
Shillong (Meghalaya) [India], July 9 (ANI): The football crazy city of Shillong welcomed back the 134th Durand Cup for the second consecutive year as the city geared up to host Asia's oldest football tournament. The three trophies of the Durand Cup were showcased here at the State Convention Centre in the presence of Conrad K Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, who was the Chief Guest of the event. Also present were Shakliar Warjri, Honourable Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya; Air Marshal Surat Singh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Air Command; and Lt. Gen. Sanjay Malik, General Officer Commanding 101 Area, along with officials of IndianOil Corporation Limited (IOCL). The three glittering pieces of silverware, the Durand Cup, the original prize and the rolling Shimla Trophy (presented by residents of Shimla in 1904), as well as the President's Cup which the winners keep permanently, will be then taken on a roadshow later in the day covering prominent city landmarks increasing the anticipation for the football loving public. Speaking on the occasion, Conrad K Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, said, 'I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Indian Armed Forces for having selected Shillong also as one of the venues to host the 134th Durand Cup. There will be eight matches at the JN Sports Complex, Shillong. We had a very successful season last year, where I can proudly say that Shillong was one of the best hosts, in terms of atmosphere, arrangements, and fan turnout. I can assure you that this year also, it will be the same. We have more local teams participating this time, which makes it more engaging for the fans of Shillong and the people of Meghalaya.' Shakliar Warjri, Sports Minister, in his address, emphasised the state's passion for football, citing the immense enthusiasm during the previous edition of the Durand Cup. He stated that the Government of Meghalaya is committed to providing top-notch facilities for the development of sports. The Minister reaffirmed the Government's commitment to developing sports infrastructure, stating its plan to construct one of the biggest football stadiums in Asia, at Mawkhanu, with a capacity to host 40,000 people. He stated that the core aim of the Government is to produce Olympians from the State of Meghalaya. Air Marshal Surat Singh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Air Command, said, 'The Durand Cup is the oldest football tournament in Asia. It is the celebration of heritage, unity, and the unwavering spirit of our people. The Indian Armed Forces are proud to be a part of this iconic event that brings communities together and inspires the youth to dream big. Shillong has truly embraced the tournament with unmatched passion, and we are grateful to the Government of Meghalaya for their continued partnership and support. The Indian Armed Forces remain committed to promoting sportsmanship, discipline, and national integration through this historic platform. I wish all participating teams the very best and look forward to a successful and spirited edition of the Durand Cup.' Lt Gen Sanjay Malik, General Officer Commanding 101 Area, shared his thoughts, 'For over 137 years, the Durand Cup has been a platform where tradition meets competition, where players and fans come together in the true spirit of sport. In recent years, the tournament has seen a significant resurgence under the stewardship of Headquarters Eastern Command. With a clear focus on professionalism, outreach, and inclusivity, the Durand Cup today stands taller than ever. We are especially grateful to the Government of Meghalaya for their unwavering support from preparing the venue to ensuring logistical and administrative support; their role has been instrumental in making this leg of the tournament a reality. I wish all the teams participating in the Durand Cup the best of luck.' The trophies will embark on a roadshow starting from the State Conventional Centre and will travel through Camel Back Road, IGP - All Saints Church, Barik, Malki, Dhanketi, Don Bosco, Laitmukrah Police Point, Beat House, Fire Brigade, Nongthymmai, Super Care Road, Rynjah, Nongrim Hills, St Edmund's School, Civil Hospital and ending at Khyndailad where a performance by the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project and band performance by the Territorial Army Battalion Band will welcome the trophies. A total of eight matches will be played in Shillong with the first match scheduled on 26th July. The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium will see city rivals Shillong Lajong FC and Rangdajied United FC fighting out in the Shillong derby, along with defending champions NorthEast United FC paving the way for some exciting northeast derbies. The Malaysia Services team will be the fourth team in the group, adding an international flavour to the tournament. Shillong Lajong made a fairy tale run in the last season, topping Group F ahead of FC Goa and beat Kolkata giants East Bengal SC in the quarter finals to qualify for the semi-finals, where they lost to eventual champions NorthEast United. (ANI)
India Gazette
3 days ago
- Sport
- India Gazette
Durand Cup trophies showcased as Shillong gears up to host tournament for second consecutive year
Shillong (Meghalaya) [India], July 9 (ANI): The football crazy city of Shillong welcomed back the 134th Durand Cup for the second consecutive year as the city geared up to host Asia's oldest football tournament. The three trophies of the Durand Cup were showcased here at the State Convention Centre in the presence of Conrad K Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, who was the Chief Guest of the event. Also present were Shakliar Warjri, Honourable Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya; Air Marshal Surat Singh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Air Command; and Lt. Gen. Sanjay Malik, General Officer Commanding 101 Area, along with officials of IndianOil Corporation Limited (IOCL). The three glittering pieces of silverware, the Durand Cup, the original prize and the rolling Shimla Trophy (presented by residents of Shimla in 1904), as well as the President's Cup which the winners keep permanently, will be then taken on a roadshow later in the day covering prominent city landmarks increasing the anticipation for the football loving public. Speaking on the occasion, Conrad K Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, said, 'I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Indian Armed Forces for having selected Shillong also as one of the venues to host the 134th Durand Cup. There will be eight matches at the JN Sports Complex, Shillong. We had a very successful season last year, where I can proudly say that Shillong was one of the best hosts, in terms of atmosphere, arrangements, and fan turnout. I can assure you that this year also, it will be the same. We have more local teams participating this time, which makes it more engaging for the fans of Shillong and the people of Meghalaya.' Shakliar Warjri, Sports Minister, in his address, emphasised the state's passion for football, citing the immense enthusiasm during the previous edition of the Durand Cup. He stated that the Government of Meghalaya is committed to providing top-notch facilities for the development of sports. The Minister reaffirmed the Government's commitment to developing sports infrastructure, stating its plan to construct one of the biggest football stadiums in Asia, at Mawkhanu, with a capacity to host 40,000 people. He stated that the core aim of the Government is to produce Olympians from the State of Meghalaya. Air Marshal Surat Singh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Air Command, said, 'The Durand Cup is the oldest football tournament in Asia. It is the celebration of heritage, unity, and the unwavering spirit of our people. The Indian Armed Forces are proud to be a part of this iconic event that brings communities together and inspires the youth to dream big. Shillong has truly embraced the tournament with unmatched passion, and we are grateful to the Government of Meghalaya for their continued partnership and support. The Indian Armed Forces remain committed to promoting sportsmanship, discipline, and national integration through this historic platform. I wish all participating teams the very best and look forward to a successful and spirited edition of the Durand Cup.' Lt Gen Sanjay Malik, General Officer Commanding 101 Area, shared his thoughts, 'For over 137 years, the Durand Cup has been a platform where tradition meets competition, where players and fans come together in the true spirit of sport. In recent years, the tournament has seen a significant resurgence under the stewardship of Headquarters Eastern Command. With a clear focus on professionalism, outreach, and inclusivity, the Durand Cup today stands taller than ever. We are especially grateful to the Government of Meghalaya for their unwavering support from preparing the venue to ensuring logistical and administrative support; their role has been instrumental in making this leg of the tournament a reality. I wish all the teams participating in the Durand Cup the best of luck.' The trophies will embark on a roadshow starting from the State Conventional Centre and will travel through Camel Back Road, IGP - All Saints Church, Barik, Malki, Dhanketi, Don Bosco, Laitmukrah Police Point, Beat House, Fire Brigade, Nongthymmai, Super Care Road, Rynjah, Nongrim Hills, St Edmund's School, Civil Hospital and ending at Khyndailad where a performance by the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project and band performance by the Territorial Army Battalion Band will welcome the trophies. A total of eight matches will be played in Shillong with the first match scheduled on 26th July. The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium will see city rivals Shillong Lajong FC and Rangdajied United FC fighting out in the Shillong derby, along with defending champions NorthEast United FC paving the way for some exciting northeast derbies. The Malaysia Services team will be the fourth team in the group, adding an international flavour to the tournament. Shillong Lajong made a fairy tale run in the last season, topping Group F ahead of FC Goa and beat Kolkata giants East Bengal SC in the quarter finals to qualify for the semi-finals, where they lost to eventual champions NorthEast United. (ANI)
