The IPA Nationals 2025 concluded with high drama and unforgettable sporting action as West Bengal sealed the Men’s Open Team Title in a thrilling finale against Rajasthan. The championship, held at the Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata, witnessed intense battles across categories, but the highlight was undoubtedly the men’s open team clash that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final point was scored.
The victory marked West Bengal’s resurgence in national-level indoor sports, reaffirming their dominance in the discipline and showcasing the depth of talent nurtured in the state. Rajasthan, despite putting up a valiant fight, fell short in the decisive moments, but their spirited performance earned admiration from fans and experts alike.
Road to the Finale: West Bengal and Rajasthan’s Journey
Both teams displayed remarkable consistency throughout the tournament, overcoming strong opponents from states like Maharashtra, Kerala, and Delhi.
| Stage | West Bengal Result | Rajasthan Result |
|---|---|---|
| Group Stage | Defeated Kerala, Delhi, and Punjab | Beat Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Assam |
| Quarterfinals | Overpowered Tamil Nadu | Narrow win against Uttar Pradesh |
| Semifinals | Beat Karnataka in straight sets | Defeated Haryana in a close contest |
| Finals | Won against Rajasthan (3–2 sets) | Lost to West Bengal (2–3 sets) |
West Bengal’s journey was marked by tactical brilliance and team cohesion, while Rajasthan relied heavily on individual brilliance and resilience to reach the summit clash.
The Grand Finale: Drama, Passion, and Skill
The final match was a spectacle of athleticism and mental toughness. West Bengal took an early lead, winning the first set convincingly. Rajasthan bounced back in the second, capitalizing on unforced errors from Bengal. The third set saw Bengal regain momentum, but Rajasthan’s captain rallied his team to level the score in the fourth.
The fifth and deciding set was a nerve-wracking affair. With the crowd roaring, Bengal’s young star delivered crucial points under pressure, sealing the championship 3–2 in sets.
| Set Number | Winner | Scoreline (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | West Bengal | 25–18 |
| 2 | Rajasthan | 23–25 |
| 3 | West Bengal | 25–20 |
| 4 | Rajasthan | 22–25 |
| 5 | West Bengal | 15–12 |
Star Performers of the Tournament
Several players stood out during the IPA Nationals 2025, earning accolades for their skill and consistency.
| Player Name | Team | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Arindam Chatterjee | West Bengal | Match-winning performance in finals |
| Saurabh Singh | Rajasthan | Inspirational captaincy, key rallies |
| Vivek Nair | Kerala | Top scorer in group stages |
| Aman Verma | Delhi | Defensive masterclass in quarterfinals |
Arindam Chatterjee’s composure in the final set was hailed as the turning point, while Saurabh Singh’s leadership kept Rajasthan competitive throughout.
Statistical Highlights of IPA Nationals 2025
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Total Teams Participated | 24 |
| Matches Played | 72 |
| Average Match Duration | 1 hour 45 minutes |
| Highest Scoring Match | Rajasthan vs Haryana (Quarterfinal, 5 sets) |
| Most Valuable Player (MVP) | Arindam Chatterjee (West Bengal) |
Fan Engagement and Atmosphere
The Netaji Indoor Stadium was packed to capacity, with thousands of fans cheering passionately for their teams. Social media platforms buzzed with hashtags like #IPANationals2025, #WestBengalChampions, and #RajasthanFightback.
The electrifying atmosphere reflected the growing popularity of indoor sports in India, with the IPA Nationals emerging as a premier event for showcasing talent and fostering state pride.
Significance of West Bengal’s Victory
West Bengal’s triumph carries immense significance:
- Revival of dominance: After years of near misses, Bengal reclaimed the national crown.
- Youth development: The team featured several young players, highlighting the state’s robust grassroots programs.
- Boost to indoor sports: The victory is expected to inspire greater participation and investment in indoor sports infrastructure across Bengal.
Rajasthan’s Brave Effort
Though Rajasthan fell short, their journey was inspirational. Their ability to fight back from difficult situations and push Bengal to the brink earned them respect. Analysts believe Rajasthan’s performance will encourage more youth from the state to take up competitive indoor sports.
Looking Ahead: IPA Nationals 2026
The success of the 2025 edition has set the stage for an even bigger tournament next year. With more states expected to participate and the level of competition rising, the IPA Nationals 2026 promises to be a landmark event in India’s indoor sports calendar.
Conclusion
The IPA Nationals 2025 will be remembered for its thrilling finale, where West Bengal edged past Rajasthan to seal the Men’s Open Team Title. The championship showcased the spirit of competition, resilience, and unity that defines Indian sports. As Bengal celebrates its victory and Rajasthan reflects on its brave fight, the tournament has reaffirmed the growing stature of indoor sports in India.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. The views and projections mentioned are based on current data and public reports and are subject to change. Readers are advised to consult official IPA releases and verified sources for real-time updates.
