Raipur, October 2026: Sanskardhani Strikers remain in contention for a semi-final berth in the Chhattisgarh Hockey League even after completing all five of their league matches. The team, led by Olympian Shamsher, defeated Mainpat Titans 4-0 on Friday, handing the Titans their first defeat in five matches in the tournament.
Ashish Tani Purti scored a hat-trick, taking his overall goal tally in the tournament to 12. The Strikers’ goal difference has now improved to +2, boosting their chances of qualifying for the semi-finals.
The situation is now clear for Sanskardhani. They will have to hope that either Bailadila Bulls lose to Chakradhar Champions or, even if the Bulls win, their victory margin remains below four goals.
Sanskardhani began cautiously against the Titans, who have one of the strongest defensive lines in the tournament. Before Match 14, the Titans had conceded only seven goals. Their defensive strength was evident in the first quarter, which ended goalless, with the score at 0-0.
However, Ashish opened the scoring for the Strikers early in the second quarter with a powerful drag-flick that Mainpat goalkeeper Pradeep Mor could not stop. The Strikers created a few more opportunities but failed to convert them, and the score remained 1-0 in their favour at half-time.
Ashish struck again in the third quarter with another goal in similar fashion. It was his 11th goal of the season, placing him among the most successful players in the tournament. He continued his impressive performance by converting another penalty corner, leaving the Titans’ defence with no answer.
In the closing moments of the match, the Strikers added a field goal. Shah Rukh provided the pass, and Om Kumar Yadav sent the ball into the net to seal the 4-0 victory.
Despite this defeat, Mainpat have already secured their place in the semi-finals and remain strong contenders for a place in the final.
