Three glittering pieces of silverware unveiled at Manipur capital Imphal
IH News Desk
REGIONAL, July 10, 2025: Imphal welcomed the 134th IndianOil Durand Cup trophies with a grand trophy tour as Asia’s oldest football tournament returned to Manipur’s capital after a gap of two years. The three trophies of the Durand Cup were showcased here at the City Convention Centre in the presence of Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Manipur Governor who was the Chief Guest of the event.
Also present, were Prashant Kumar Singh, Chief Secretary, Manipur and senior military leadership including Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra, Chief of Staff, HQ Eastern Command and Chairman, Durand Cup Organising Committee, Lt. Gen. Abhijit S Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding, 3 Corps, Maj Gen SS Karthikeya, General Officer Commanding, 57 Mountain Division, Maj Gen Ravroop Singh, Inspector General, Assam Rifles (South) and Shri Rajiv Singh IPS -DGP Manipur
The three glittering pieces of silverware, the Durand Cup, the original prize and the rolling Shimla Trophy (presented by residents of Shimla in 1904), as well as the President’s Cup which the winners keep permanently were unveiled during the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Governor said, “Hosting the 134th edition of the Durand Cup tournament once again in Imphal is a testament to our state's deep-rooted passion for football and the collective efforts of both civil and military establishments. I would like to convey my sincere appreciation to the Indian Army, particularly the Eastern Command for bringing this celebrated tournament back to the football-loving land of Manipur. Sports are an integral part of our state's identity. Manipur has always been at the forefront of sporting excellence, producing national heroes and Olympians who have brought immense pride to the nation. I wish the 134th Edition of the Durand Cup great success. I am confident that it will be bigger, better, and more thrilling than ever before. My heartfelt wishes to all the participating teams. May you play with honour, courage, and passion, inspiring countless young hearts along the way”.
The trophy tour started in the morning from Sendra and travelled through Moirang, Bishnupur, Nambol, Keishampat Junction, Singjamei BR, Manipur University, Kangla West Gate, Chingmeirong (War Cemetery) and Lamlong Bazar before arriving at the City Convention Centre.
Eight members of the Women’s National team from Manipur including captain Ngangbam Sweety Devi, Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi, Hemam Shilky Devi, Grace Dangmei, Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi and Lynda Serto Kom that recently qualified for 2026 AFC Women’s Asia Cup were also present at the roadshow flag off.
A total of six matches will be played in Imphal with the first match scheduled on July 30. The Khuman Lampak Stadium will host local sides North Eastern Re Organising Cultural Association (NEROCA FC) and Tiddim Road Athletic Union (TRAU FC) who will face each other in the Manipur derby. Real Kashmir FC and Indian Navy Football Team are the other sides in the group.
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