One
of the epic matches of polo in India was the match between two titans; Patiala
and Jodhpur in 1922. The game marked the downfall of the Patiala Team and rise
of the Jodhpur team. The team from Jodhpur reined the polo field for the next
three decades. The epic match is described as one of the crucial match to have
been played in India during the rule of the princely state. An analysis of the
gradual evolution of polo as a tactical game up to this period will show that
improvements in the game mainly were in the form of development of what already
existed. This was achieved primarily by an increased attention to details and
extending the game to its natural conclusion, especially as the keen edge of
competition, spurred on by Regimental or National honour was increasingly
applied to the sport. Teams came to the top as leaders arose who had the
necessary skills in the game to guide and shape the lines of play as well as
the capacity for leadership to enforce their view on others. However, the
lessons taught by one team were soon forgotten, having to be re-learnt to a
great extent by the next due to a failure by the players in general, to grasp
the essentials.
Around 1, 50,000 spectators gathered around the field to witness the match. Many dignitaries gathered to watch the match as well which included future king of England, the Viceroy, some 50 Maharajas and princes, dozens of generals and high government officials and all the ladies dressed as if they were going to be received a court. The atmosphere was perfect for a high voltage match.To know more read:
