Sports

MCL 11: MCC Avengers and MCC Thunder Seal Dominant 6-Wicket Wins in Margao


Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk

The MCL 11 T20 cricket tournament continued to deliver exciting cricketing action at the MCC Ground in Margao, where MCC Avengers and MCC Thunder secured convincing victories in their respective matches. In the morning encounter, MCC Stallions posted 142 for 9 in 20 overs with contributions from Rueben Karekar, who scored 25, and Dr. Ankush Patil, who remained unbeaten on 35. The Avengers’ bowling attack was spearheaded by Amod Borkar with an impressive 3 for 20, while Venkatesh Nevagi matched the effort with 3 for 24.

Gopal Gawas and Siddhant Amonkar added crucial breakthroughs as well. Chasing the target, MCC Avengers displayed excellent control and aggression. Venkatesh Nevagi continued his all-round brilliance with a solid 36-run knock, supported by Amod Borkar who added 39 and Vedant Naik who contributed 37. The Avengers reached 143 for 4 in just 15.2 overs, sealing a comfortable 6-wicket win. Nevagi’s impactful performance with both bat and ball earned him the Man of the Match award.

The afternoon match witnessed MCC Tigers setting a target of 141 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs. Key contributions came from Shailu with 29, Vaibhav Naik with 35, and Ketan Kunde with 27. MCC Thunder’s disciplined bowling effort was highlighted by Sudesh Rane’s excellent 3 for 19, while Nikhil Bhoomkar and Roshan Naik chipped in with economical spells.

In response, MCC Thunder executed a composed chase, finishing at 143 for 4 in 18.1 overs. Sahil Adwalpalkar made 29, while Roshan Naik played a crucial innings of 39 runs. Ved Mahambre anchored the chase with an unbeaten 31. The Tigers’ bowlers, including Balkrishna Hodarkar, Jamir, Mrunmay Das and Sanat Kamat, picked up a wicket each but couldn’t prevent the inevitable. Roshan Naik’s valuable all-round contribution earned him the Man of the Match title.

The day closed with both MCC Avengers and MCC Thunder strengthening their campaign with authoritative wins, showcasing depth, discipline and strong individual performances in the ongoing MCL 11 tournament.

Sports

Goa’s Saibar Mulla Appointed BCCI Match Observer for India–South Africa Test in Guwahati


Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk

Goa’s cricket administration has received a significant boost with the appointment of Saibar Mulla as the BCCI Match Observer for the second Test match between India and South Africa in Guwahati. Mulla, a former junior cricketer who represented Goa at U-13, U-14, and U-15 levels, described this recognition as a proud moment not only for himself but for the entire Goan cricket community.

Reflecting on his journey, Saibar credited his father, Akbar Mulla—who served the Goa Cricket Association (GCA) in several key capacities including Treasurer, Senior Vice-President, and member of the BCCI Marketing Committee—for inspiring his early involvement in cricket administration. Over the years, Saibar served as President of Akbar Sports Club, managed club-level cricket operations, and actively participated in GCA organising committees for A Division, B Division, and Premier League tournaments, eventually becoming a co-opted member of the GCA.

He highlighted five key mentors who shaped his administrative journey: his father Akbar Mulla, senior GCA stalwart Chetan Desai, Vinod Phadke, former GCA President Suraj Lotlikar, and current GCA President Mahesh Desai. Their guidance, combined with his own dedication, paved the way for his national-level appointment.

As a BCCI Match Observer, Saibar will oversee the logistical and operational aspects of the Test match, ensuring compliance with regulations and smooth execution of the event. He emphasized the broader significance of this role, stating that it reflects the emerging administrative talent from Goa and serves as inspiration for umpires, scorers, and administrators in the state.

Saibar’s journey from a junior cricketer to a national-level administrator illustrates Goa’s contribution to Indian cricket beyond the playing field. He hopes his appointment will motivate young Goans to pursue careers behind the scenes in cricket, stressing the importance of hard work, passion, and dedication to the sport. This achievement stands as a testament to Goa’s growing presence in national cricket administration and highlights the state’s commitment to nurturing talent and contributing meaningfully to Indian cricket.

Sports

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


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.

Sports

Aryan Narvekar to Lead Goa U-23 Men’s Team for Col CK Nayudu Trophy 2025–26


Goa | October 2025: The Goa Cricket Association (GCA) has officially announced the Goa U-23 Men’s Team for the Col CK Nayudu Trophy 2025–26, to be played in Jharkhand from October 16 to 19, 2025.

Promising young cricketer Aryan Narvekar has been appointed as the captain, leading a strong 16-member squad that represents Goa’s emerging cricketing talent.

The team includes:

  1. Lakmesh Pawne
  2. Shivendra Bhujbal
  3. Rudresh Sharma
  4. Ayush Verlekar
  5. Aryan Narvekar (Captain)
  6. Chittem Devankumar
  7. Vinayak Kunte
  8. Kaustub Pingulkar
  9. Deep Kasvankar
  10. Pundalik Naik
  11. Chittem Jeevanakumar
  12. Aman Dhooper
  13. Bansil J. Pandya
  14. Veer Yadav
  15. Anuj Yadav
  16. Nityay Shenvi Kunkolinkar

The announcement ceremony was attended by GCA President Shri Mahesh Dessai, Secretary Shri Tulshidas Shetye, Director of Coaching and Cricket Operations Prakash Mayenkar, Head Coach Jai Prakash Yadav, and Assistant Coach Avadoot Amonkar.

Speaking on the occasion, GCA President Mahesh Dessai expressed confidence in the young squad, highlighting their dedication and performance during the selection phase. “This team reflects the depth of talent emerging from Goa’s cricketing ecosystem,” he said.

The Col CK Nayudu Trophy serves as a key platform for India’s U-23 cricketers to showcase their skills and transition into the senior competitive circuit. With a focus on discipline, teamwork, and tactical awareness, the Goa team aims to make a mark in this prestigious domestic tournament.

As Team Goa heads to Jharkhand, cricket enthusiasts across the state extend their best wishes for a successful campaign that brings glory to Goan cricket.

Sports

CM Pramod Sawant Assures Full Support to Newly-Elected Goa Cricket Association Committee


Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

The newly-elected Goa Cricket Association (GCA) managing committee, led by former Ranji Trophy cricketer Mahesh Dessai, received a strong assurance of support from Goa’s Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant.

In a courtesy meeting at his official residence on Monday, Sawant congratulated the new office bearers and said:

“As far as Goan cricket is concerned, I backed the committee earlier and will continue to support the new group.”

The elections saw a 6-0 clean sweep for the panel led by former presidents Chetan Dessai, Vinod Phadke, Vipul Phadke, and Suraj Lotlikar. Mahesh Dessai defeated rival candidate Mahesh Candolkar to take over as president.

Outgoing president Vipul Phadke highlighted the CM’s assurance, stating:

“The state government and all departments will support us.”

Chetan Dessai also added that the meeting with the CM reflected unity within the committee, with Sawant being “very supportive.”

Later in the day, Mahesh Dessai and his team formally assumed charge of GCA affairs at the association’s Porvorim headquarters.

The elections took place amid political and sporting dynamics, as the rival panel ‘Parivartan’, backed by BCCI joint secretary and BJP functionary Rohan Gauns Dessai, was defeated despite enjoying state government support previously.

With this new leadership in place and government backing reaffirmed, cricket in Goa looks set for a phase of renewed energy and growth.