Get ready for a thrilling display of hockey action as the 95th MCC-Murugappa All India Gold Cup hockey tournament gears up to take place in Chennai from September 19th to 29th. This iconic tournament, steeped in tradition, is a testament to the enduring legacy of hockey in India.
The tournament’s opening match will see a clash between the Madras Cricket Club (MCC) and The Mercara Downs Golf Club (Coorg) on September 18th under floodlights. This traditional opener sets the stage for the intense competition that will follow.
D. Vivek Kumar Reddy, president of MCC, emphasized the crucial role played by the financial support of Murugappa and the organizational prowess of MCC in making this tournament a resounding success. He highlighted the rich history of the event, stating that MCC has independently managed the tournament for years, and Murugappa has similarly run a prestigious hockey tournament. This collaboration has resulted in a landmark event that promises excitement and high-quality hockey.
The tournament’s format features two groups, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semifinals on September 28th. The winners of the semifinals will then face off in the grand final on September 29th, with the champion team walking away with a prize of Rs. 7 lakhs, while the runner-up will receive Rs. 5 lakhs.
The participating teams include a mix of prominent names in Indian hockey, showcasing the best of the sport:
Pool A:
* Indian Railways
* Indian Army
* BPCL
* Hockey Maharashtra
* Hockey Unit of Tamil Nadu
Pool B:
* Hockey Karnataka
* IOCL
* National Centre of Excellence (Bhopal)
* Central Secretariat
* Hockey Odisha
The MCC-Murugappa All India Gold Cup is not just a tournament; it’s a celebration of hockey, a showcase of talent, and a platform for the future stars of the sport to shine. Be sure to mark your calendars and witness the electrifying action unfold on the field!
