Lautoka heat takes toll on teams

Listen to this article:

Melvin Mani (right) in control for Labasa (Tabucola) Sangam against Sugar City (Rifle Range) Sangam during the Sangam World Cup clash at Churchill Park in Lautoka. Picture: BALJEET SINGH

The 2025 TISI Sangam World Cup is currently in full swing, marking the return of the tournament after a 10-year hiatus.

Day three of competition has arrived, and board chairperson Upendra Gounder has expressed satisfaction with the progress thus far.

Gounder noted that the soccer competition kicked off on Thursday, with both local and overseas teams showcasing their talent and determination.

“We started off with the soccer competition yesterday (Thursday), the tournament started well, and it was a good progress through the entire day.

“We got some mixed results from the soccer competitions, local teams and overseas teams have actually playing their hearts out well.

Despite the challenging heat conditions, the matches have been competitive and exciting.

“Heat is a factor, it has been affecting teams a lot, but evening games we quiet well, was the weather cool down, we saw some quality games, some good football.”

In addition to soccer, this year’s tournament includes new additions such as Snooker, as well as longstanding favorites like golf and Netball.

He adds the last edition of the competition took place in 2014, and the enthusiasm and passion of the players from around the world coming together to celebrate their culture and heritage is palpable.

With four days of thrilling sporting events ahead, Gounder expressed optimism about the tournament’s progression and looked forward to seeing which teams would come out on top.

He extended thanks to the organizing committee for bringing back this special event, as well as to the Lautoka City council for providing the venue and ensuring security.

Gounder also expressed gratitude to the players who travelled from afar to participate, and he wished them all the best as the competition continues.