Mohit Nayak shines as Mainpat strengthen their campaign, while Chirag’s hat-trick powers Nyaydhani to a fourth-goal victory over Bailadila Bulls
TFP Bureau, Raipur, October 25,2026: Mainpat Titans defeated Rajdhani Royals 5-2 in the seventh match of the Chhattisgarh Hockey League on Sunday, dealing a major blow to the Royals’ semi-final hopes. In another encounter, Nyaydhani Knights beat Bailadila Bulls 4-1 to secure their place in the semi-finals after winning all three of their matches.
Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Tokhan Sahu, Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister Arun Sao, MP Kamlesh Jangde, former minister Mahesh Gagda and former international hockey player Neeta Dumre attended the match between Mainpat Titans and Rajdhani Royals and presented awards to outstanding performers. Sao attended the league for the third consecutive day.
Mainpat dominate after slow start
The opening quarter began at a measured pace, with both teams largely exchanging possession in midfield and creating few opportunities inside the opposition circle. Mainpat stepped up the pressure towards the end of the quarter, and Manish Vatti converted an opportunity to give the Titans the lead.
Rajdhani responded through Aniket, who scored after receiving a pass from Roshan to level the score. Roshan appeared to put the Royals ahead shortly afterwards, but his effort was disallowed by the referee.
Mainpat regained the advantage when Sandeep Thakur capitalised on a well-directed pass from midfield to make it 2-1 before half-time.
The Titans continued to press after the break. Rajdhani’s Lalit produced an impressive long-range scoop towards Roshan, who converted the chance in a move described as one of the tournament’s finest goals. Mohit Nayak then extended Mainpat’s advantage with a reverse-flick finish.
Prince added another goal as Mainpat widened the gap, leaving Rajdhani struggling to recover. The Royals failed to make the most of their penalty-corner opportunities and could not mount a sustained comeback.
Mohit Nayak was named both Player of the Match and Striker of the Match for his performance.
The defeat has left Rajdhani Royals’ chances of reaching the semi-finals in serious doubt. On Monday, October 26, Sanskardhani Strikers will face Bailadila Bulls, while Chakradhar Champions will take on Mainpat Titans.
Chirag hat-trick takes Nyaydhani into semi-finals
Nyaydhani Knights strengthened their position at the top of the points table with a convincing 4-1 victory over Bailadila Bulls, confirming their semi-final qualification after three consecutive wins.
Drag-flicker Chirag was the standout performer, scoring a hat-trick to lead the Knights’ attack. Jaskaran Singh scored the lone goal for Bailadila Bulls, who remain at the bottom of the standings without a win.
Chirag was named both Player of the Match and Striker of the Match in recognition of his decisive contribution.
With the league progressing towards the knockout stage, Nyaydhani have emerged as strong contenders, while teams including Mainpat will look to build momentum in their remaining fixtures.
