Tag: GoaCricketAssociation

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

Tanisha Cardozo

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

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

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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.