Overview
- Governing body
- Indian Polo Association
- Origin
- Ancient Persia / Manipur
- Olympic discipline
- No
- Category
- Team
- Total players listed
- …
Polo is one of India's most-followed disciplines. The Indian Polo Association oversees national federation activity, talent identification and Olympic qualification pathways. Major support flows in through TOPS and Khelo India for athletes who clear federation benchmarks.
Polo is not currently on the Olympic programme, but it sits firmly inside India's broader sporting ecosystem. The discipline receives support through the Khelo India movement, multi-sport events such as the National Games and Asian Games trials wherever the sport is contested, and dedicated league or championship structures run by the federation. Sponsorship, broadcast deals and private academies often fill the gap that direct government funding leaves, and several state governments offer cash awards, government jobs and land grants to medallists at the National Games and recognised world championships.
As a team sport, Polo in India is built around a club, district and state structure that culminates in national-level inter-state competition. State associations affiliated to the Indian Polo Association run age-group leagues from under-14 upwards, with the strongest pools historically coming from states with established grassroots infrastructure. Franchise leagues — where they exist — sit on top of this pyramid and have transformed athlete earnings, broadcast visibility and the professionalisation of coaching and support staff. School and college tournaments under SGFI and AIU remain the primary discovery route for players who do not come through a private academy.
At the grassroots, the route into Polo typically starts at school under the School Games Federation of India (SGFI), at the inter-university level under the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), or through a private academy registered with the state association. The Khelo India Youth Games and Khelo India University Games are the largest single discovery platforms — athletes who reach the podium at these events become eligible for the Khelo India Talent Development scheme, which funds boarding, coaching, kit, education and a monthly stipend at accredited centres. State sports awards and central government jobs under the sports quota remain a powerful incentive for athletes from smaller towns.
Polo originated in Ancient Persia / Manipur, and in India it has developed a distinct character shaped by the country's geography, demographics and sporting culture. Whether you want to compete, coach, sponsor, write about or simply follow Polo, the practical starting point is the same: connect with your state association under the Indian Polo Association, identify the nearest SAI centre or accredited academy, and track the Khelo India and federation calendars for the events that decide selection at every level. Polo is played and developed across India under the Indian Polo Association, with grassroots programmes, state associations and national-level competition pathways.
History
How polo evolved globally and took root in India.
Polo traces its modern origins to Ancient Persia / Manipur. Codified rules, standard equipment and international competition took shape as the sport spread beyond its birthplace, and Indian Polo Association is the body that carried it into organised Indian competition.
In India, polo grew through princely-state patronage, defence-service teams, universities and state associations. Post-independence, the discipline was formalised under Indian Polo Association, national championships were instituted, and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) later brought it into the centralised high-performance system with dedicated centres, coaching cadres and sports-science support.
Polo sits outside the Olympic programme but is firmly part of India's Asian Games, Commonwealth and National Games map, with state governments backing medallists through cash awards, jobs and land grants.
Indian Players
Loading…- Aditi ShindeManipurMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Aditya MenonMadhya PradeshAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Advik ChatterjeeRajasthanAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Advik ShettyHimachal PradeshBack
Last-line defender reading hooks and using positioning to block shots and clear the ball.
- Akshay NagTelanganaAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Amit SenHimachal PradeshBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Amit TuduUttar PradeshForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Ananya BansalArunachal PradeshMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Anika JadhavHimachal PradeshBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Anika SinghOdishaCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Anirudh KamathAssamForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Anirudh ShindeHaryanaBack
Last-line defender reading hooks and using positioning to block shots and clear the ball.
- Anjali MishraLadakhCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Anjali SahaLadakhBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Anjali ShahHaryanaBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Ankit KumarLadakhBack
Last-line defender reading hooks and using positioning to block shots and clear the ball.
- Ankit RanaTelanganaCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Anya PantHaryanaBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Arjun SarkarMizoramMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Aryan SenTelanganaBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Atharv TopnoArunachal PradeshMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Avani BhallaOdishaMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Avani ShuklaMeghalayaForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Bhakti PrasadMadhya PradeshAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Bhavesh OjhaTelanganaBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Bhavesh PillaiPunjabMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Bhavna KrishnanChandigarhForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Bhavna ShuklaPuducherryMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Bhumi RathodServicesForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Charvi PawarTelanganaForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Chhavi BhatiaMeghalayaForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Chhavi ChandraWest BengalAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Chhavi KarChandigarhMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Chhavi SahaJharkhandCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Damini DubeJammu and KashmirBack
Last-line defender reading hooks and using positioning to block shots and clear the ball.
- Damini KarTamil NaduAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Damini KaurServicesMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Damini PatnaikPuducherryMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Darshan DeshpandeWest BengalMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Darshan TomarAndaman and Nicobar IslandsMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Darshan TyagiSikkimBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Darshana BansalManipurBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Darshana PandeyAssamMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Deepak TiwariOdishaMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Deepali JoshiChandigarhForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Deepika PrasadMizoramBack
Last-line defender reading hooks and using positioning to block shots and clear the ball.
- Devansh AhujaMeghalayaBack
Last-line defender reading hooks and using positioning to block shots and clear the ball.
- Devansh RanaMaharashtraForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Divya SaxenaKeralaBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Diya DeshpandeJharkhandMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Diya KrishnanGujaratForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Diya SubramanianAssamForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Eklavya BhosaleRailwaysMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Esha MishraPunjabForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Esha MukherjeeMeghalayaForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Esha TyagiJharkhandMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Faisal BishtMizoramCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Faisal KulkarniBiharMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Faisal SaxenaTelanganaForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Gargi PrasadMizoramForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Gargi VermaNagalandAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Gaurav PatelSikkimForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Geetika KrishnanUttarakhandForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Geetika MarandiServicesForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Harsh BhatiaRajasthanBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Harsh KumarChhattisgarhCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Harsh RathodMizoramMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Hema GuptaDelhiMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Hemant SahooJammu and KashmirBack
Last-line defender reading hooks and using positioning to block shots and clear the ball.
- Hemant ShuklaChhattisgarhMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Hrithik DesaiMeghalayaForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Jaideep ChopraHaryanaMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Jaideep MukherjeeAndhra PradeshMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Janvi SubramanianGoaMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Janvi TrivediChhattisgarhBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Jatin NairTelanganaForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Jatin SharmaUttarakhandAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Jyoti SaxenaPunjabMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Kabir ChopraChandigarhCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Kabir SethiWest BengalBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Kabir ShettyGoaForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Karan NegiDelhiMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Karan PrasadAndhra PradeshBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Keshav LakraSikkimMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Keshav MitraGoaMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Kiara JoshiMadhya PradeshForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Komal SubramanianGoaBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Krish BhallaHimachal PradeshForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Kritika ChatterjeeHaryanaBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Kritika DasRailwaysMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Kritika KulkarniGujaratMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Kritika NegiAndaman and Nicobar IslandsBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Lakshay KarRajasthanBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Lipika ReddyBiharCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Lokesh AwasthiAndhra PradeshAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Madhav PandeyServicesAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Madhav ShindeBiharAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Madhav SolankiRailwaysForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Madhuri SolankiWest BengalCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Mahima SahooMeghalayaCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Mahima SethiMadhya PradeshForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Manav TopnoRailwaysBack
Last-line defender reading hooks and using positioning to block shots and clear the ball.
- Manisha TuduAndaman and Nicobar IslandsMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Mihir KarHimachal PradeshBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Mihir ParmarMaharashtraBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Myra JindalChandigarhCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Naina BhattacharyaTelanganaBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Naina SinghGoaBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Neha BansalMizoramForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Nidhi AhujaJammu and KashmirAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Nidhi ChauhanJharkhandCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Nidhi OjhaUttarakhandBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Nidhi PrasadGujaratAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Niharika MukherjeeRajasthanAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Nirmal ChatterjeeGujaratForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Nirmal GoswamiDelhiForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Ojaswini JoshiJammu and KashmirMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Omkar JadhavGujaratMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Omkar JoshiMizoramMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Pallavi DubeRajasthanForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Pallavi DuttaKarnatakaForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Pari ShuklaMizoramCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Parth MenonMeghalayaMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Pavan ChatterjeeArunachal PradeshMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Pavan PillaiMeghalayaCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Payal KrishnanWest BengalCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Pooja ShindeWest BengalForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Pooja TomarSikkimForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Pragya RathodBiharForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Pragya RoyServicesForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Prateek MishraServicesCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Preeti KumarTelanganaForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Preeti SrivastavaMeghalayaMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Priya GhoshServicesMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Priya MurmuAndhra PradeshBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Priya PandeyTripuraForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Priya RaoChandigarhCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Priya TrivediKeralaAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Radhika BhatiaPunjabBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Radhika TyagiAndaman and Nicobar IslandsForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Raghav SethiUttar PradeshBack
Last-line defender reading hooks and using positioning to block shots and clear the ball.
- Rahul DuttaHimachal PradeshCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Rahul KulkarniGoaCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Rahul SenOdishaForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Rajat ChauhanAssamMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Rajat MitraOdishaAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Rajat RathodDelhiMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Rakesh PatelChandigarhBack
Last-line defender reading hooks and using positioning to block shots and clear the ball.
- Rashmi DasTelanganaForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Reyansh VarmaPunjabBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Reyna SenAndhra PradeshAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Riya AwasthiManipurForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Riya ReddyAssamMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Rohan DubeMizoramCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Ruchi MishraChandigarhForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Saanvi ShahArunachal PradeshAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Sahil BishtMizoramMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Sahil YadavKeralaMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Sakshi MalhotraOdishaForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Sakshi SahooNagalandCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Sakshi YadavJharkhandAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Sandeep AwasthiManipurForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Sandeep JoshiChandigarhMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Sandeep SenPuducherryMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Sanket JindalBiharAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Sanket ReddyLadakhMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Sara ChatterjeeOdishaForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Sara JoshiJammu and KashmirBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Shaurya ChakrabortyUttarakhandCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Shaurya ChopraMeghalayaForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Shreya SinghMadhya PradeshForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Siddharth ParmarAndhra PradeshMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Sneha KarJammu and KashmirBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Tanmay ChatterjeeLadakhBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Tanmay JindalDelhiMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Tanmay KulkarniDelhiMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Tanmay ShindeGujaratBack
Last-line defender reading hooks and using positioning to block shots and clear the ball.
- Tarun RanaGoaMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Tushar MarandiArunachal PradeshCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Tushar SarkarWest BengalMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Umesh PatelKeralaMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Umesh ShuklaMadhya PradeshBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Vaishali AhujaManipurAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Vaishali MukherjeeChandigarhBack
Last-line defender reading hooks and using positioning to block shots and clear the ball.
- Vanya JoshiBiharBack
Last-line defender reading hooks and using positioning to block shots and clear the ball.
- Varsha SahooMizoramBack
Last-line defender reading hooks and using positioning to block shots and clear the ball.
- Varun KaurTripuraMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Veer ChakrabortyArunachal PradeshAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Veer PathakNagalandMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
- Vihaan BeheraRajasthanCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Vihaan BishtUttarakhandMidfield
Playmaker controlling the pace, linking defense to attack and distributing diagonal passes.
- Vikas TopnoMadhya PradeshCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Vinay MarandiHaryanaForward
Pace-setting forward making dangerous runs off the ball and finishing off the dribble.
- Vishal SharmaDelhiCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Yamini SaxenaRajasthanForward
Aggressive attacker pressing forward and converting near-goal opportunities with accurate mallet work.
- Yamini SinghAndaman and Nicobar IslandsBack
Last-line defender reading hooks and using positioning to block shots and clear the ball.
- Yuvraj AwasthiAssamBack
Defensive anchor protecting the goalmouth, taking man-to-man marks and launching counter-attacks.
- Yuvraj DeshpandeGujaratAll-Rounder
Versatile rider contributing across all positions and adjusting to different chukker situations.
- Yuvraj ShettyJharkhandCaptain
Field marshal managing tactics, line-outs, penalty plays and horse rotations.
- Zara TopnoHaryanaMidfield
Two-way rider covering ground between the back line and the opposing goal.
Rules
Two opposing sides contest a fixed-duration match on a marked field or court, with officials enforcing possession, out-of-play, foul and scoring rules published by the international federation. Teams field a set number of players plus substitutes, age and gender categories are strictly separated, and match officials use video review at the top level. India follows the international rulebook adopted by the national federation, with domestic tweaks for age-group and school competition durations.
Authoritative rulebook: Indian Polo Association. Age-group and school-level variations are published by SGFI and the state associations each season.
Positions
Key roles, events or positions inside a polo squad or competition.
- Attackers / forwardsPrimary scorers who operate closest to the opposition goal or scoring zone.
- Midfielders / all-roundersLink play between defence and attack; usually the highest work-rate positions.
- DefendersDeny the opposition space and possession in the defensive third.
- Goalkeeper / last lineSpecialist stopper with distinct kit and rules; the final line of defence.
- Captain & vice-captainOn-field leadership, decision-making and communication with match officials.
Equipment
Standard kit and infrastructure required to train and compete in polo at a federation-recognised event.
- Match ball or puck to the federation's specification
- Team playing kit, warm-up gear and studded/turf footwear
- Personal protective equipment where the sport requires it (shin guards, mouthguard, helmet, pads)
- Training equipment: cones, agility ladders, GPS vests, video analysis rig
- Field or court markings, goals/nets and match-officials' equipment
Governing body
Indian Polo Association is the recognised national body for Polo in India. It sets the domestic calendar, selection norms, coaching curriculum and anti-doping compliance, and is affiliated to the international federation for polo. State associations under Indian Polo Association run age-group competition and feed the national talent pipeline.
- Origin
- Ancient Persia / Manipur
- Olympic
- No
- Category
- Team
Major Indian Events
Domestic championships, Khelo India events, National Games and franchise leagues that shape the polo calendar in India.
- Indian Polo Association Senior National Championship
The primary domestic polo title and the main selection trial for the senior India team.
- Indian Polo Association Junior & Sub-Junior National Championship
Age-group nationals that feed the Khelo India Talent Development scheme and the senior camp.
- Khelo India Youth Games & University Games — Polo
India's largest multi-sport scouting platform; medallists become eligible for KIA stipends and boarding at accredited centres.
- National Games of India — Polo
Quadrennial multi-sport meet contested by state teams; state governments give cash awards, jobs and land grants to medallists.
International Events
Continental and world-level competitions where India competes in polo.
- Asian Games & Asian Championships
Continental championship pathway sanctioned by Indian Polo Association; medallists receive central and state cash awards.
- Commonwealth Games / Championships
Commonwealth-level competition where India regularly fields medal contenders in polo.
- World Championships
The senior world title event of the international federation — the peak of the polo calendar outside the Olympic year.
Leagues
No dedicated professional league is currently catalogued for polo. The national championship under Indian Polo Association remains the top domestic competition.
All leagues →International Players
Globally recognised polo athletes to know outside India.
- Lionel Messi (Argentina)8-time Ballon d'Or; 2022 World Cup winner.
- Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)5-time Ballon d'Or; Euro 2016 champion.
- Kylian Mbappé (France)2018 World Cup winner; multiple Ligue 1 top scorer.
- Erling Haaland (Norway)Manchester City forward; Premier League Golden Boot.
- Manuel Neuer (Germany)2014 World Cup-winning goalkeeper; Bayern Munich legend.
Records
Where to find India's official polo record book.
- Olympic medalsN/A
Polo is not on the Olympic programme, so India records this discipline through Asian Games, Commonwealth, World and Continental championships instead.
- Asian Games medalsTracked
India's Asian Games results in polo are compiled by the Indian Olympic Association and the Indian Polo Association.
- Commonwealth medalsTracked
Commonwealth Games and Commonwealth Championship medals in polo are maintained by the Indian Polo Association.
- World Championship medalsTracked
Senior, junior and youth World Championship medal records are held by the international federation for polo and mirrored by Indian Polo Association.
- National record holdersFederation register
Indian Polo Association publishes the current senior, junior and sub-junior national records and updates them after every ratified event.
Career Options
Ways to build a career in polo — on the field, on the sidelines and behind the scenes.
- Professional player in a domestic franchise league, state team or overseas club
- Coach at grassroots, state, national or franchise level (federation-certified)
- Match official — referee, umpire, video review, technical delegate
- Sports science support — strength & conditioning, physiotherapy, nutrition, video analyst
- Sports management, broadcast, journalism, commentary and creator careers
- Government-quota jobs in Railways, defence, police, PSUs and state services for state and national representatives
Related academies
0 listedNo polo academies are catalogued in the directory yet. Browse the full academy list or list your academy to appear here.
Government Schemes
…Central and state schemes that fund training, stipends and awards for polo athletes and academies.
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All government schemes →FAQs
Common questions about polo in India.
Who governs Polo in India?▾
Indian Polo Association is the recognised national federation for Polo in India. State associations under Indian Polo Association run age-group and state-level competition and feed the national talent pipeline.
Is Polo an Olympic sport?▾
Polo is not currently on the Olympic programme, but India competes at Asian Games, Commonwealth Games (where recognised), World Championships and other continental events sanctioned by Indian Polo Association.
How do I start playing Polo in India?▾
Join a school team under SGFI, a college team under AIU, or a private academy affiliated to your state association. From there, age-group state championships and Khelo India events are the standard route into the national pipeline.
What government schemes support Polo athletes?▾
The core schemes are Khelo India (talent development stipends, scholarships and boarding at accredited centres), TOPS (funding for elite athletes preparing for the Olympics, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games), and state-government cash awards, jobs and land grants for medallists. Federation-specific schemes may also apply.
Where can I train for Polo?▾
Sports Authority of India (SAI) national centres of excellence, Khelo India accredited academies, state sports institutes and private academies registered with the state association are the standard training venues. The Academies section on this page lists options.
How are Indian Polo athletes selected for international events?▾
Indian Polo Association runs selection trials — typically the senior national championship, a dedicated trial event, or ranking-based selection — and publishes the selection policy each season. Objective criteria (times, distances, ranking points, weight-class results) dominate at the elite level.
Polo in every state & UT
Dedicated pages for Polo in each Indian state and Union Territory — academies, schemes, athletes and how to start.
- Polo in Andhra Pradesh
- Polo in Arunachal Pradesh
- Polo in Assam
- Polo in Bihar
- Polo in Chhattisgarh
- Polo in Goa
- Polo in Gujarat
- Polo in Haryana
- Polo in Himachal Pradesh
- Polo in Jharkhand
- Polo in Karnataka
- Polo in Kerala
- Polo in Madhya Pradesh
- Polo in Maharashtra
- Polo in Manipur
- Polo in Meghalaya
- Polo in Mizoram
- Polo in Nagaland
- Polo in Odisha
- Polo in Punjab
- Polo in Rajasthan
- Polo in Sikkim
- Polo in Tamil Nadu
- Polo in Telangana
- Polo in Tripura
- Polo in Uttar Pradesh
- Polo in Uttarakhand
- Polo in West Bengal
- Polo in Andaman & Nicobar Islands
- Polo in Chandigarh
- Polo in Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu
- Polo in Delhi
- Polo in Jammu & Kashmir
- Polo in Ladakh
- Polo in Lakshadweep
- Polo in Puducherry