Mainpat Titans and Bailadila Bulls play out a 3-3 draw on Day Two; former India captain Sardar Singh inspires players as tournament builds towards November 1 final
TFP Bureau, Raipur, October 23, 2026: The Chhattisgarh Hockey League is bringing the state’s hockey talent to a global audience, with every match being streamed live on JioHotstar. Organised by the Department of Sports and Youth Welfare at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Hockey Stadium in Raipur, the tournament began on October 21 and will culminate on November 1, coinciding with Chhattisgarh State Foundation Day.
Featuring Olympians, experienced Indian players and emerging local talent, the league aims to strengthen the state’s hockey ecosystem and provide young players with a platform to showcase their abilities. Former Indian hockey captain and Olympian Sardar Singh, the league’s brand ambassador, is also present to motivate participants and encourage the next generation of players.
The tournament was inaugurated in the presence of Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Nikhil Khadse as chief guest, while Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister and Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Arun Sao presided over the ceremony.
Mainpat Titans and Bailadila Bulls share points
The second day of the league witnessed an intense contest between Mainpat Titans, led by Olympian Pradeep Mor, and Bailadila Bulls, captained by Olympian Chinglensana Singh. The match ended in a 3-3 draw after Bailadila staged a comeback following Mainpat’s early dominance.
Bailadila opened the scoring through Sandeep Thakur, who converted a penalty corner. Mainpat responded in the second quarter when Praveen Yadav deflected the ball into the net following a promising move by Prahlad Tandi, taking the score to 1-1.
Mainpat gained further momentum and moved ahead 2-0 by half-time. However, Bailadila intensified its attacks after the break, with Jaskaran Singh setting up Rahul Yadav for a goal. Jaskaran subsequently converted a penalty corner to level the contest.
Prahlad restored Mainpat’s advantage with a reverse-flick finish inside the circle. Bailadila, however, continued to press and secured a late equaliser through Nihal Hussain Ansari, who scored from a rebound following a penalty corner.
Prahlad was named ‘Striker of the Match’ for his attacking performance, while Karan Dhanuk received the ‘Player of the Match’ award.
Nyaydhani Knights win opener; women’s exhibition match promotes hockey
On the opening day, Nyaydhani Knights, led by Olympian Surendra Singh, defeated Rajdhani Royals, captained by Olympian Lalit Upadhyay, 2-1. Ketan Kushwaha earned both the ‘Striker of the Match’ and ‘Player of the Match’ honours.
A women’s exhibition match held on October 22 added another highlight to the tournament. Indravati Tigress defeated Mahanadi Falcons 4-1, showcasing women’s hockey talent and supporting efforts to expand the sport’s reach.
Semi-finals on October 31, final on State Foundation Day
The league stage will continue until October 29, with two matches scheduled each day. Teams will have a rest day on October 30 before the semi-finals on October 31. The two semi-final matches are scheduled for 5.30 pm and 7.30 pm, while the final will be played at 5.30 pm on November 1.
With live streaming on JioHotstar, the league is giving hockey enthusiasts across India and abroad an opportunity to follow the competition. The participation of Olympians and established players is expected to provide valuable exposure for emerging talent while raising the profile of hockey in Chhattisgarh.
