India clinches men’s and women’s titles at Asian Lacrosse GamAsian Lacrosse Gameses in Riyadh

India won both men’s and women’s titles at the Asian Lacrosse Games in Riyadh, defeating Iraq and Pakistan respectively. Led by T Anudeep Reddy and Sunita Meena, the teams showcased dominance as India’s community in Saudi Arabia celebrated the double triumph

By Gulf Correspondent

Riyadh: Lacrosse, a sport rapidly gaining popularity across several countries, once again showcased its growing stature at the recently concluded Asian Lacrosse Games held in Saudi Arabia, where India demonstrated its mastery of the game.

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Saudi Arabia hosted the second edition of the Asian Lacrosse Games at its capital, Riyadh, with teams from India, Pakistan, Iraq and the host nation participating.

India achieved the distinction of winning both the men’s and women’s titles. The Indian men’s team defeated Iraq in the final, while the women’s team overpowered Pakistan to clinch the championship.

The Indian men’s lacrosse team, led by T Anudeep Reddy of Telangana, won the gold medal by defeating Iraq 9-2 in the final.

“We are proud that Indian team has delivered an outstanding performance,” said captain Anudeep Reddy, who hails from Moosapeat mandal in Mahbubnagar district.

Left-handed player Dayashankar Gameti scored five goals, while Khumar Ram Gameti and Nishant Nagda scored two each. The team displayed strong planning and coordination in defence, led by Ashish Goyat. Goalkeeper Narayan Lal Gameti once again delivered an outstanding performance, helping India secure a comfortable victory. Belagal Hussiansab of Kurnool was also part of the Indian team.

The women’s final against Pakistan turned into a one-sided contest, with the Indian team, led by Sunita Meena, registering an emphatic 22-5 victory.

The Indian community in Riyadh, led by prominent philanthropist Dr Idris Saleem Gour, hosted a community reception to celebrate the Indian team’s impressive performance at the Games. Senior diplomat YK Sabir and prominent community members Shihab Kotthukad and Muzzamil Shaikh, among others, attended the event.

“The young athletes made proud of India at global fora,” said Dr Idris.

Hosting the championship underlined the Kingdom’s expanding role in supporting diverse sports and bringing nations together, he said.