Basketball: Punjab men pip Chandigarh, women rout J&K

Sports Correspondent

Ludhiana, December 7

National title holders in the men’s section, Punjab overpowered Chandigarh, however in the women’s category, the host beat Jammu and Kashmir without being challenged to record the second consecutive win in the ongoing 71st Senior North Zone Basketball Championship being held at Guru Nanak Stadium here on Tuesday.

In the men’s section, Chandigarh waged a spirited battle against host Punjab which has a couple of international players in its ranks. In the first quarter, the host had to toil hard as the visitors played like a well knit unit, giving many anxious moments to their experienced opponents.

The Punjab men had an easy day out yesterday against Jammu and Kashmir whom they overwhelmed 108-37. However, today they had to sweat it out as Chandigarh players fought valiantly before losing the battle eventually.

As the game progressed, the Punjab players found the rhythm and managed to drop in baskets, including three pointers and surged ahead. They went on to consolidate the lead to seal the issue 97-59. Amytoj Singh, Amritpal Singh and Gurbaz Singh spearheaded the Punjab’s campaign.

In the women’s section, Punjab, who started on a high note on Monday with a convincing (64-11) victory over Himachal Pradesh, were again in their true elements today, recording another comfortable win (57-8) against Jammu and Kashmir.

In other matches of the men’s section, Delhi got the better of Jammu and Kashmir 93-70 and Haryana defeated Himachal Pradesh 66-20.

Mohinder Pal Singh Sehgal and Ramneek Singh Sehgal, chairman and managing director, respectively, Ceigall India Limited and prominent sports promoters were the chief guests today.

Teja Singh Dhaliwal. honorary general secretary, Punjab Basketball Association, expressed gratitude towards guests on behalf of the organising committee for their contributions to promote basketball.