The 2025 TISI Sangam World Cup commenced yesterday at Churchill Park in Lautoka, featuring exhilarating matches in the Masters division and setting an exciting tone for the tournament ahead. The opening match was a nail-biter, with New Zealand Papatoetoe Masters narrowly edging out Lautoka Masters 2-1. New Zealand Middlemore Masters delivered an impressive performance, dominating Ba Masters with a commanding 4-0 victory. Meanwhile, Nadi Uciwai Masters managed a close win against Australia Sydney Masters, securing a 1-0 finish.
Chairperson of the games board, Upendra Gounder, expressed his enthusiasm for the start of the tournament, noting the palpable energy and spirited competitiveness displayed by the teams. “Initially, we were concerned that the weather might impact the overseas teams, but they performed remarkably well,” he remarked, commending the teams’ preparation and ability to adapt to their surroundings.
This year’s tournament, which kicked off on October 26, holds special significance for TISI Sangam Fiji as it leads up to the centennial celebration in April 2026. After an 11-year break, the event returns to Fiji, featuring a diverse array of local and international teams competing across various divisions, including Premier, Masters, and Legends. Additionally, events in netball, golf, and snooker are part of the festivities.
The Sangam World Cup not only showcases athletic talent but also reinforces community connections and cultural heritage among participants and spectators alike. Gounder emphasized the excitement surrounding the tournament, stating, “Most teams have come prepared, and the excitement is definitely there,” underlining the unity and camaraderie such events inspire.
As the tournament progresses, teams will compete for early points and national pride, with a series of matches set to unfold across different categories. The vibrant enthusiasm and high participation indicate a promising and thrilling experience for everyone involved in this biennial celebration of sports and culture in Fiji.