Tag: Goa Cricket Association

Sports

Goa State Chess Championship for Persons with Disabilities Sets the Stage for International Purple Fest 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

In a powerful showcase of resilience, intellect, and inclusive spirit, the Goa State Chess Championship for Persons with Disabilities was held on September 21, 2025, at Hotel Menino, Ponda. The event served as an official prelude to the International Purple Fest – Goa 2025, setting the tone for a celebration of abilities, accessibility, and empowerment.

Organized through a collaborative effort between the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Office of the State Commissioner for PwDs, Goa Chess Association for PwDs, Bhatikar Charitable Trust, and the Goa Cricket Association, the championship welcomed participants from across the state in a spirit of friendly competition and community.

Participants displayed exceptional strategy and focus, reminding us all that chess is a game where mental prowess takes center stage, regardless of physical ability. The atmosphere was one of solidarity and support, filled with applause for every thoughtful move and every resilient spirit.

This event wasn’t just a competition—it was a movement. A reaffirmation that platforms like the Purple Fest are not just about showcasing talent but about creating systems of inclusion that allow every individual to shine.

As Goa prepares to host the much-anticipated International Purple Fest 2025, this championship stands as a testament to the state’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and equality in all spaces—including sports.

Sports

Yashasvi Jaiswal Reaffirms Loyalty to Mumbai, Withdraws NOC to Join Goa

allycaralgoa

In a significant development on the domestic cricket circuit, India Test opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has formally withdrawn his request for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to move from Mumbai to Goa, opting instead to remain with his home team ahead of the 2025-26 domestic season.

The 23-year-old had sparked speculation in April when he approached the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) seeking permission to represent Goa as a professional player, a move that reportedly included potential captaincy discussions.

However, in May, Jaiswal wrote to the MCA requesting that the NOC process be halted, citing personal and family-related reasons for the change of heart.

The matter was formally resolved on Monday, when the MCA Apex Council ratified the withdrawal of the NOC request.

“The Apex Council has approved the withdrawal of the No Objection Certificate (NOC) earlier requested by Yashasvi Jaiswal. He will remain available for Mumbai in all domestic competitions,” the MCA confirmed in a statement.

MCA president Ajinkya Naik welcomed the decision, stating:

“Yashasvi has always been a proud product of Mumbai cricket. We have accepted his request and he will be part of our plans for the upcoming season.”

In his letter to the MCA in May, Jaiswal clarified that the initial intent to shift base was linked to personal circumstances which have since changed.

“I had some family plans in shifting to Goa, which for now have been curtailed. I have not submitted the NOC to the BCCI or the Goa Cricket Association,” he wrote.

The confirmation puts an end to weeks of speculation about the young left-hander’s domestic future and reaffirms his commitment to Mumbai — the team where he developed and rose to international prominence.

In addition to retaining Jaiswal, the MCA also announced the return of the iconic Dr HD Kanga League, which will commence from July 20 in its traditional monsoon format — a beloved part of Mumbai’s cricketing heritage.

Earlier this month, the MCA did grant a transfer to another India international, Prithvi Shaw, who has been cleared to represent a different state side in the upcoming season.

Jaiswal’s decision to stay adds a strong boost to Mumbai’s domestic lineup as they prepare for a competitive season ahead. With rising stars and experienced hands, Mumbai remains one of India’s most formidable cricketing states.