Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk
The fifth edition of the Panjim Gymkhana Members League (PGML 5.0) commenced on Saturday at the Panjim Gymkhana ground, Campal, Panaji, with Manas Mavericks and Priority Titans registering convincing victories in their opening matches. The much-anticipated T20 tournament began with great enthusiasm, drawing players, officials and cricket enthusiasts in large numbers.
Earlier in the day, PGML 5.0 was formally inaugurated at the venue. The ceremony began with the toss involving team captains, umpires and the match referee, followed by a formal gathering attended by the Panjim Gymkhana President, team owners, captains, Managing Committee and Governing Council members, along with the Chief Guest. Panjim Gymkhana President Manoj Caculo welcomed the gathering, after which the Chief Guest, Goa Cricket Association President Mahesh Dessai, officially declared the tournament open by releasing balloons along with the team owners. The ceremony also featured an address by the Chief Guest, presentation of a memento and the playing of the National Anthem. GCA Secretary Tulsidas Shetye was present as the Guest of Honour.
During the function, several dignitaries were felicitated for their contributions to the sport. Rajesh Khaunte presented a memento to Mahesh Dessai, Suresh Mahadevan felicitated Tulsidas Shetye, Sarfaraz Sheikh honoured Prasad Shirsat of Golden Goa, while Manish Karapurkar felicitated Amit and Mary from Majestic, the tournament sponsors. In his address, Mahesh Dessai expressed special appreciation for Anil Pai Angle and Sandeep Naik for their guidance and continued contribution to cricket.
The cricketing action began with the opening match between Manas Mavericks and Dempo Challengers. Manas Mavericks delivered a dominant performance, posting a massive 220 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs, powered by a half-century from Vijay Nagarajan and valuable contributions from Avishkar Mone, Om Phadte and Mihir Gawde. In reply, Dempo Challengers were restricted to 132 for 9, as the Manas Mavericks bowlers shared the wickets to secure an emphatic 88-run victory.
In the second match of the day, Priority Titans continued the trend of dominant performances, scoring 198 for 5 against Sun Estate Warriors. Adeep Prabhu Miskin top-scored with a well-crafted half-century, while Jaipal Mada and Heramb Shankar Parab added crucial runs. Sun Estate Warriors were bowled out for 134 in 16.4 overs, handing Priority Titans a convincing 64-run win.
With the successful start of PGML 5.0, cricket fans can look forward to several weeks of high-quality T20 action, competitive performances and growing excitement at the Panjim Gymkhana ground.
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