The CDR Punjab Royals ended the league phase in convincing manner as they thrashed the Haryana Hammers to secure their third win in the competition. They won five out of seven bouts to secure what was a comfortable win over their rivals from a bordering state.
While the likes of Jargalsaikhan Chuluunbat and Vasilisa Marzaliuk clinched easy victories, skipper Geeta Phogat had to fight hard to win her bout. Down a point with seconds to go, Phogat made a wonderful comeback to defeat her Ukrainian opponent Oksana Herhel.
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As the action unfolded on the mat, the Royals grapplers were buoyed by the presence of legendary actor and team co-owner Dharmendra in the team dugout. The Sholay star was thoroughly immersed in all the happenings and cheered his side on passionately, much to the delight of the crowd at the KD Jadhav Wrestling Stadium in Delhi.
The iconic film star spoke to the press after the match and expressed his delight at his team’s fantastic victory. He exclaimed at the quality of wrestling on display and said that Geeta Phogat’s bout was one of the best wrestling matches he had ever seen.
He said that he expects his team to reach the finals and if God is willing, they should also go on to lift the Pro Wrestling League crown. He stressed on the importance of the support of the fans in any sporting tournament and thanked the crowd for turning up in large numbers and showing their support for his side. The Action King also said that it is only with the whole-hearted support of the fans that the Royals can go on and win the title.
Dharmendra called wrestling the mother of all sports, given its roots and how it has been a recreational as well as a competitive activity since time immemorial. He said that it was an integral part of our culture and is the most ‘Indian’ out of all other sports.
He compared it to our national obsession cricket and said that while cricket has its most exciting moments when there are few balls left and few runs to get, wrestling offers non-stop exciting action. “Wrestling ka nasha hi kuch aur hai,” said the renowned actor, which means that the thrill and addictive quality of wrestling is something completely different from any other sport.
Dharam paaji, as he is fondly called, took a trip down memory lane and recalled his younger days when he used to frequent akhadas and wrestle almost every day. He said that he was an avid wrestler during his younger days and used to plough akhadas with sarson ka tel i.e. mustard oil. He also spoke about being connected to the sport and how at an age of 80 years old, he still finds himself on the edge of his seat while watching a bout anywhere – on TV, in an akhara, or in an international arena.
He lavished praise on his side, especially Geeta Phogat, who he called ‘his daughter’. He beamed with pride as he spoke about her bout and how she showed resolve and determination, which he referred to as the true mark of a champion. He wished her and his entire team the best of luck in the knockout rounds and said that his blessings will always be with them.
