Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu, DD, In a moment of immense pride for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, its Masters Basketball teams have etched their names in the annals of Indian sports history by clinching one gold and one silver medal at the 7th Masters National Games held in Dharamshala. Making their debut at the prestigious tournament, the teams delivered standout performances that have inspired a wave of celebration and admiration across the region.
Organized by the Masters Games Association Himachal Pradesh under the aegis of the Super Masters Games and Sports Federation (India), the tournament witnessed Jammu and Kashmir’s athletes shine on a national platform, proving their mettle and leaving an indelible mark.
Leading the charge was the dynamic Iqbal Singh, whose performance was nothing short of spectacular. With over 30 points to his name, Singh’s leadership and skill on the court earned him the coveted title of Best Player of the Tournament. His influence extended far beyond the scoreboard, motivating his teammates and lifting the entire squad with his energy and focus.
The highlight of the tournament was the J&K men’s team in the 35+ age category, who stormed to a decisive 64-46 victory over Haryana in the final match, capturing the gold medal. The team, composed of Bhanu Partap Singh, Iqbal Singh, Ranbir Singh, Sumit Kumar, Varinder Dabgotra, Sahil Sharma, Vaneet Pangotra, Mohan Singh, Sachin Bhambra, Sahil Uppal, Sumit Dogra, and Sandeep Khajuria, showcased exceptional coordination and resilience throughout the tournament.
In the 40+ men’s category, the team fought valiantly against Kerala in a tightly contested final, ultimately securing the silver medal with a narrow 50-57 defeat. The squad, including familiar faces like Iqbal Singh and Bhanu Partap Singh, along with Ranjeet Singh Chib, Sumit Kumar, Varinder Dabgotra, Vaneet Pangotra, Mohan Singh, Sachin Bhambra, Sahil Uppal, and Sumit Dogra, earned widespread applause for their spirit and sportsmanship.
Ranjeet Singh Chib, President of the Jammu and Kashmir Masters Games Association (JKMGA) and a former international handball player, hailed the victory as a landmark achievement for the UT. He extended his gratitude to key institutions such as the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports, led by Sh. Rajinder Singh Tara (JKAS), the J&K Police, and the Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, whose collaborative efforts were instrumental in creating a supportive environment for the athletes.
The remarkable achievements of J&K’s Masters Basketball teams are more than just wins on the court—they represent a triumph of perseverance, unity, and the indomitable spirit of the region’s athletes. Their success has ignited a renewed passion for sports across Jammu and Kashmir and serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when talent meets opportunity.
As the dust settles on a historic tournament, the legacy of these athletes is only just beginning.DD
