Category: Sports

Sports

Tanaya Naik to Lead Goa in Women’s U-23 One Day Trophy

Tanisha Cardozo

Panaji: Goa’s women’s cricket continues to gain momentum as Tanaya Naik has been appointed captain of the state’s Under-23 team for the upcoming Women’s U-23 One Day Trophy 2025–26. The tournament will be held in Dehradun from March 3 to March 11, bringing together some of the most promising young cricketers from across the country.

Goa has been placed in Group E and will play five league matches in the competition. The team will begin its campaign against Hyderabad on March 3, followed by fixtures against Saurashtra (March 5), Chandigarh (March 7), Andhra (March 9), and Delhi (March 11).

The squad features a blend of emerging talent and consistent performers who have been making steady progress in domestic cricket. Leading the side, Tanaya Naik will shoulder the responsibility of guiding the team through a competitive tournament and setting the tone with both leadership and performance.

Squad:
Tanaya Naik (Captain), Harshita Yadav, Urvashi Govekar, Tanisha Gaikawad, Pooja Kalel, Presha Naik, Palak Arondekar, Savali Kolambkar, Metali Gawander, Nirmiti Khanvilkar, Vidika Sawant, Swarali Kasar, Siddhi Savase, Kimya Desai, Harshada Kadam, Mrunmayee Bhike, Shilpa Sharma.

With increasing focus on women’s cricket across India, tournaments like the Women’s U-23 One Day Trophy provide a crucial platform for young players to showcase their abilities and push for higher honours. For Goa, this tournament represents not just participation, but an opportunity to make a strong statement on the national stage.

As the team heads into the competition, expectations will be high, and all eyes will be on how these rising stars perform against some of the best young talent in Indian cricket.

Sports

Vimson Panjim Powerplay Seal One-Run Thriller in GSB Unity Cup 3.0

Tanisha Cardozo

It was a night of high drama and edge-of-the-seat action in Margao as Vimson Panjim Powerplay clinched a sensational one-run victory over Madgaon Royals CC in the GSB Unity Cup 3.0, organised by the Goa GSB Sports and Charitable Trust.

Played under floodlights at the MCC Ground, the match delivered everything a cricket fan could hope for — a competitive total, strong individual performances, and a finish that went right down to the final ball.

Chasing 160 for victory, Madgaon Royals CC fought hard but fell just short, ending at 158 for 7 in their 20 overs. The match reached its peak in the final delivery, where the Royals needed four runs to win and three to tie. In a desperate attempt to complete the third run, Granthik Buyao was run out, handing Vimson Panjim Powerplay a dramatic one-run win.

Earlier in the evening, after winning the toss, Madgaon Royals opted to field first. Vimson Panjim Powerplay posted a competitive total of 159 for 7, thanks to a composed and captain’s knock from Amod Borkar. Leading from the front, he scored a fluent 50 off 39 balls, including five boundaries and a six.

He was well supported by Shivam Varik, who contributed 31 off 25 balls, and Siddhant Amonkar, who added a quickfire 30 off just 19 deliveries. The innings was further boosted by 21 extras, which proved crucial in the end.

For Madgaon Royals, Sanat Prabhudessai was the standout bowler, returning impressive figures of 2 for 23, while Samprabh Phaldesai and Kartik Hattangadi chipped in with a wicket each.

In response, Madgaon Royals mounted a strong chase led by Sahish Mahambrey, who played a blistering knock of 52 runs, smashing four boundaries and three sixes. Sanat Prabhudessai added 31 runs, while Damodar Pai Patnekar (20) and Kartik Hattangadi (17) provided valuable contributions in the middle order.

However, disciplined bowling by Vimson Panjim Powerplay kept the pressure intact. The team conceded just eight extras, a factor that ultimately made the difference in such a closely contested match. Amod Borkar, Kapil Sinai Borkar, and Siddesh Desai picked up a wicket each at crucial moments.

At the post-match presentation, Amod Borkar was named the Desserts N More Player of the Match for his all-round performance, while Siddesh Desai received the Kamat Realty Hero of the Match award.

The thrilling contest not only showcased the competitive spirit of local cricket in Goa but also highlighted how fine the margins can be in the game — where every run, every ball, and every decision counts.

Sports

Uttar Pradesh Signs MoU with AVW Global to Bring MotoGP Back to India

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In a major boost to Indian motorsport, the Government of Uttar Pradesh has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AVW Global to facilitate the return of MotoGP to India.

The agreement is expected to revive international racing at the iconic Buddh International Circuit, a track that has previously hosted high-profile global motorsport events.

The Buddh International Circuit, located in Greater Noida, was once India’s premier motorsport destination, attracting international attention and thousands of racing fans. However, global racing events at the venue had slowed in recent years.

With this new partnership, the state government aims to reposition Uttar Pradesh as a global sporting destination. Officials believe the revival of MotoGP will not only enhance India’s presence in international motorsport but also generate tourism, investment, and employment opportunities in the region.

MotoGP is regarded as one of the most prestigious motorcycle racing championships in the world, drawing elite riders, global sponsors, and massive television audiences.

Industry observers note that the success of the revival will depend on seamless coordination between event organisers, international governing bodies, and state authorities.

If executed effectively, the return of MotoGP could mark a turning point for India’s motorsport ecosystem — reigniting enthusiasm among fans and reinforcing the country’s capability to host world-class sporting events.

Sports

Power Panthers, Dhadsakhal Stars, Oxford and Ghumteshwar Shine in Junior Cricket Championship

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Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

Panaji: Power Panthers Porvorim, Dhadsakhal Stars, Oxford and Ghumteshwar emerged victorious in the Junior Cricket Championship organised by Oxford Cricket Club at SAG Ground, Chicalim and Arlem Ground.

At SAG Ground, Chicalim, Panajim Challengers batted first and posted 139 for 6 in 25 overs, powered by an unbeaten 80 from Vansh Kudtarkar. In response, Power Panthers chased down the target comfortably, scoring 140 for 2 in 20 overs. Samaan Manjrekar (55) and Sahil Metri (37) set up the victory with solid contributions. Samaan Manjrekar was adjudged Man of the Match.

In the second encounter at the same venue, AK Rangers scored 131 for 6 in 25 overs, with Ayush Gaonkar contributing 62. However, Dhadsakhal Stars made light work of the chase, reaching 132 for 3 in just 16.2 overs. Pranjal Singh’s 59 proved crucial, while Adeep Prabhu Misquin was named Man of the Match.

At Arlem Ground, Margao Cricket Club were restricted to 115 for 6 in 20 overs and suffered an eight-wicket defeat to Oxford. Oxford achieved the target comfortably, scoring 120 for 2 in 15.1 overs. Rumaan Mulam remained unbeaten on 43 and was declared Man of the Match.

In another closely fought contest, Ghumteshwar edged past Banjara Cricket Club by four runs. Ghumteshwar posted 133 for 6 in 25 overs, with Rehan Hubali top-scoring with 49 and Parth Sankpal contributing an unbeaten 21. Banjara were limited to 129 for 7 in their 25 overs despite Yash Naik’s 45. Parth Sankpal was named Man of the Match.

The tournament was inaugurated in the presence of Goa Ranji cricketer Darshan Misal as Chief Guest and senior Goa player Vinavi Gurav as Guest of Honour. Also present were Junior Cricket Championship President Romeen Bunty Mulam, JCC Mentor Sandip Naik and Treasurer Naresh Assoldekar.

Sports

Goa to Host Vizzy Trophy 2026: Top University Teams Set to Clash

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa is set to become the centre of university cricket action as the Goa Cricket Association gears up to host the prestigious Vizzy Trophy from March 1 to 7, 2026. The tournament will bring together some of the finest university cricketers from across the country, representing the North, South, East, and West Zones.

Played in the one-day format, the competition promises fast-paced and competitive cricket, offering young players a valuable opportunity to showcase their skills on a national stage. The Vizzy Trophy has long been regarded as an important platform for emerging talent, often serving as a stepping stone for players aspiring to make their mark in professional cricket.

Matches will be conducted at two key venues — the GCA Ground in Porvorim and the Panjim Gymkhana Ground — both of which are expected to host exciting encounters throughout the week-long tournament. With teams from different zones bringing diverse playing styles and strengths, spectators can look forward to a dynamic and engaging cricketing spectacle.

Beyond the competition, the tournament also highlights Goa’s growing presence as a host for major sporting events. By bringing together top university teams, the Vizzy Trophy not only promotes competitive cricket but also encourages sports development at the grassroots and collegiate levels.

As anticipation builds, all eyes will be on the young cricketers who will take the field, aiming to leave a lasting impression. With talent, ambition, and opportunity coming together, the Vizzy Trophy 2026 is set to be a significant chapter in India’s university cricket calendar.