Tag: BVCI

Sports

Goan Player Basappa Madar Named in Indian Squad for Inaugural Asian Legends Cup 2026

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Intern Rency Gomes, Team Allycaral Sports Desk

Goa’s veteran cricketer Basappa Madar has been selected to represent India in the inaugural Asian Legends Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in Chiang Mai, Thailand, from January 28 to February 4. His selection marks a proud moment for Goa, with Abhijit Kadam from Sangli also named in the Indian squad from the West Zone.

The Indian squad has been officially announced by the Board for Veteran Cricket in India, marking the launch of the first-ever Asia-level continental championship for cricketers aged 40 years and above. The tournament will feature six Asian nations — India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, UAE, and Hong Kong — and is being seen as a landmark event for veteran cricket in the country.

Former India international Manpreet Gony has been appointed captain of the Indian team, with Jatin Saxena named vice-captain. The squad has been selected based on performances in recent inter-zonal veteran tournaments, bringing together experienced and consistent performers from across the country.

Reacting to the announcement, Vinod Phadke, President of the Goa Veteran Cricket Association and Secretary of the Board for Veteran Cricket in India, described the tournament as a historic step for the sport. He said the selection of Basappa Madar reflects the depth of talent within Goa and the West Zone and expressed confidence that the Indian team would perform strongly on the Asian stage.

Sudesh Prabhudesai, Secretary of the Goa Veteran Cricket Association, also welcomed the development, stating that it was encouraging to see a Goan player gain international exposure through veteran cricket. He added that the association’s sustained efforts and competitive leagues have helped provide players with the right platform to progress to higher levels.

Expressing his happiness, Basappa Madar said that representing India at an international veterans’ tournament was a dream come true and that he was proud to take Goa’s name onto the Asian stage. Abhijit Kadam echoed similar sentiments, calling the selection a great honour and a responsibility he looked forward to embracing.

The Asian Legends Cup 2026 is expected to give veteran cricket a new dimension, offering seasoned players the opportunity to compete at the highest continental level while celebrating the passion, experience, and enduring spirit of the game.

Sports

Vinod Phadke Outlines Vision to Strengthen Veterans’ Cricket in Goa as GVCA Hosts 3rd Veterans Tournament

allycaralgoa

Panaji, Goa:The Goa Veterans Cricket Association (GVCA) is all set to host the 3rd GVCA Veterans Cricket Tournament from November 13 to 15, taking place across the SAG Chicalim and GCA Porvorim grounds. As preparations gain momentum, GVCA President and Board of Veteran Cricket in India (BVCI) Secretary Vinod Phadke has outlined a forward-looking vision for veterans’ cricket in Goa.

Phadke emphasized the importance of building a stronger ecosystem for senior cricketers, with regular tournaments and improved facilities.

“We want to ensure that those who’ve contributed to the sport continue to enjoy competitive cricket with the right infrastructure and support,” said Phadke.

The GVCA was founded to give opportunities to passionate players who, despite their dedication, didn’t make it to the state Ranji team. It provides a platform for these athletes to continue their cricketing journey.

Phadke expressed pride in Goa’s contribution to national-level veterans’ cricket.

“Last year, three of our players represented various franchises in the Indian Veterans Premier League (IVPL), playing alongside cricketing legends like Chris Gayle, Virender Sehwag, and Suresh Raina. Watching them compete with icons was a moment of immense satisfaction,” he shared.

Under Phadke’s leadership, GVCA has been closely collaborating with BVCI to host interstate and zonal tournaments, including one successfully held in Goa in 2023. These efforts are helping to create a structured, sustainable ecosystem for senior players across India.

Acknowledging the challenges, Phadke thanked the Goa Cricket Association (GCA) and its President Mahesh Dessai for their continued support.

“Infrastructure and participation are key challenges, but GCA’s assistance has ensured smooth organization and growth,” he added.

Looking ahead, Phadke announced plans to host more national-level veterans’ tournaments in Goa, combining sport with tourism and cultural engagement.

“Veterans’ cricket keeps experienced players connected to the game, inspires younger generations, and sustains the spirit of cricket across ages,” he concluded.

The 3rd GVCA Veterans Tournament promises not only to celebrate cricket but also the legacy of players who have kept the spirit of the game alive well beyond their prime years.