Sports

Dhadsakhal Stars, AK Rangers, Power Panthers & Oxford Shine on Day 2


Panaji: Dhadsakhal Stars, AK Rangers, Power Panthers Porvorim, and hosts Oxford registered impressive victories on the second day of the Junior Cricket Championship organised by Oxford Cricket Club on Thursday, showcasing emerging cricket talent across Goa.

At the SAG Ground in Chicalim, Dhadsakhal Stars delivered a dominant performance against Ghumteshwar. Batting first, Ghumteshwar were bowled out for 97 in 22 overs, with Rehan Hubali top-scoring with 37 and Yash Shet adding 19. However, the rest of the batting lineup failed to build partnerships as Shaurya Chodankar led a disciplined bowling attack to dismantle the innings.

In response, Dhadsakhal Stars made light work of the chase, reaching 101 for the loss of just one wicket in only 7.4 overs. Adeep Prabhu Misquin starred with an unbeaten 59, while Pranjal Singh contributed 32. Chodankar’s all-round impact earned him the Man of the Match award.

In another fixture, AK Rangers secured a convincing 46-run victory over Banjara Cricket Club. Tanishq Naik was the standout performer, smashing an unbeaten 122 to guide his team to a strong total of 203 for three in 25 overs, with Sahil Gaonkar adding 28 runs.

Banjara Cricket Club fought back with a determined 64 from Nanthan Sawant but were eventually bowled out for 157 in 24.3 overs. Naik capped off a brilliant outing by also picking up three wickets, earning him the Man of the Match honour.

At the Arlem Ground, Power Panthers Porvorim edged past Margao Cricket Club by 14 runs in a closely contested match. Posting 155 for six in 25 overs, they were powered by steady unbeaten contributions from Anurag Bahadur (34) and Saish Virnodkar (30).

Margao Cricket Club responded strongly, with Keyaan Thota scoring an unbeaten 56, but fell short at 141 for seven. Bahadur’s all-round performance, including two wickets for 25 runs, proved decisive as he was named Man of the Match.

Meanwhile, hosts Oxford registered a commanding 60-run victory over Panaji Challengers. Oxford posted 165 for six in their 25 overs, led by Rumaan Mulam (46), Vishesh Behl (38), and Farhan Shaikh (35).

Panaji Challengers struggled in their chase and were bowled out for 105 in 23.4 overs despite Diganth Manohar’s 30. Mulam delivered with the ball as well, claiming two wickets to seal a comprehensive win and earn the Man of the Match award.

With strong performances across matches, the championship continues to underline the depth of young cricketing talent in Goa, setting the stage for more competitive encounters in the coming days.

Sports

RC Goa Crowned PGML 5.0 Champions After Dominant Final Win


RC Goa emerged champions of the Panjim Gymkhana-organised PGML 5.0 cricket tournament after defeating Priority Titans by five wickets in a commanding final at Bandodkar Ground.

Chasing a target of 157, RC Goa displayed confidence and composure, completing the run chase with 27 deliveries to spare. The champions were awarded ₹3 lakh along with the trophy, while Priority Titans settled for the runners-up prize of ₹2 lakh.

Earlier, Priority Titans opted to bat first after winning the toss and posted 156 before being bowled out in 19.3 overs. The innings began on a strong note, with the team reaching 102 for 1, but a sudden middle-order collapse saw them slip to 114 for 5. Contributions from Rijul Pathak (37), Atharva (37), and Adeep Misquin (26) laid the foundation, but the lower order failed to capitalise.

RC Goa’s bowling unit played a crucial role in restricting the opposition. Nakul Mhamal led the attack with impressive figures of 3 for 23, while Dattesh Priolkar picked up two wickets. Support came from Aryan Mashelkar, Gauresh Khandepakar, and Vardhan Prabhu Misquin, who kept the pressure on throughout the innings.

In response, RC Goa got off to a flying start, with Venkatesh Verlekar smashing 29 off just 13 balls. Sachin Sardesai anchored the innings with a composed 40, while Vardhan Prabhu Misquin added a valuable 38. Skipper Rajshekhar Harikant ensured there were no late setbacks, finishing unbeaten on 24 and sealing the victory in style with three consecutive sixes.

At the presentation ceremony, Digambar Kamat congratulated the winners and noted the competitive nature of the league, with a different champion emerging each year. Former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes, who attended as a special guest, praised the spirit of teamwork and the successful organisation of the tournament.

Individual Awards:

  • Player of the Match: Nakul Mhamal
  • Best Fielder: Adeep Misquin
  • Best Bowler: Ramnath Gaonkar
  • Best Batter: Heramb Shankar Parab
  • Player of the Tournament: Ramnath Gaonkar

The tournament once again highlighted the depth of cricketing talent in Goa, delivering exciting matches and memorable performances for fans.

Sports

Baale Tigers, Sherwin Shaw Falcons Register Convincing Wins in PGML 5.0


Written by Alisha Fernandes || Allycaral

Panaji: Baale Tigers and Sherwin Shaw Falcons continued their strong run in the ongoing PGML 5.0 tournament with impressive victories in their respective league encounters at the Panjim Gymkhana ground.

In the morning match, Priority Titans won the toss and opted to bat first but were restricted to 138 for 8 in their 20 overs by a disciplined Baale Tigers bowling unit. Atharva Kumar fought hard with a well-made 53, supported by Yeshwant Barde’s 24. However, the Titans struggled to build momentum as Harshal Shah and Prasad Patil wreaked havoc, claiming three wickets each to keep the scoring in check.

In reply, Baale Tigers displayed calm and confidence during the chase. Openers Sandip Dahad (49) and Dishan Pujari (34) laid a solid foundation. The innings was then expertly steered home by Prasad Patil (21 not out) and Rajaram Kundaikar (28 not out), as Baale Tigers reached the target in 19.2 overs to seal a comfortable six-wicket victory.

The afternoon fixture saw Sun Estate Warriors post a competitive 155 for 8 after electing to bat first. Harsh Jethaji top-scored with 32, while Rohit Rane added 31. Sherwin Shaw Falcons’ bowlers kept the pressure on throughout, with Tunish Sawkar claiming three wickets and Iftikhar Agha picking up two crucial scalps.

Chasing the target, Sherwin Shaw Falcons came out with intent. Prajyot Rivonker anchored the innings with a solid 41, while Gourav Desai chipped in with a brisk 34. The turning point came in the form of Tunish Sawkar’s explosive cameo of 40 off just 16 balls, which powered the Falcons to 156 for 5 in just 16.4 overs. His all-round brilliance earned him the Player of the Match award as Sherwin Shaw Falcons cruised to a five-wicket win.

With these victories, both Baale Tigers and Sherwin Shaw Falcons strengthened their positions on the PGML 5.0 points table, setting up an exciting phase ahead in the tournament.

Sports

Anjuna Launches First Pickleball Court,


Anjuna, Goa — August 1, 2025: The vibrant village of Anjuna has a new reason to celebrate. With the grand inauguration of its first-ever Pickleball court, the community has taken a significant step towards promoting health, unity, and recreation. The facility, inaugurated by the Oscar D’Souza family, marks a landmark addition to local infrastructure dedicated to wellness and sport.

Pickleball, a blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is gaining momentum worldwide—and Anjuna is now on the map. The sport’s inclusive nature makes it appealing to both youth and elders, offering a high-energy but low-impact workout in a fun, social setting.

Since the inauguration, participation has surged. Youngsters are embracing the sport with energy, while seniors appreciate its gentle pace and health benefits. What’s more, the court is already becoming a place for neighbors to bond, relax, and thrive.

The Oscar D’Souza family shared their pride in supporting this initiative. “We hope this court inspires a lifestyle of wellness and active living,” they said. Their vision, along with community leaders, is that such spaces will continue to bring people together.

Local leaders praised the initiative for its focus on mental well-being and social cohesion, citing Pickleball as not just a game, but a new cultural connector for Anjuna.

As villagers rally around this game of paddles and quick footwork, one thing is certain: Anjuna’s love for Pickleball is just beginning.

Sports

Calangute Association Storm Into Vedanta Trophy Final With Commanding Win


Sinquerim, Goa – July 1, 2025 : Calangute Association Football Club has marched confidently into the final of the 1st Vedanta Trophy, registering a solid 2-0 victory over their opponents at the Sinquerim Sports Club ground on Monday.

The game saw Calangute dominate in both possession and chances created. Rising star Jovito Fernandes opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, converting an early opportunity that gave Calangute a 1-0 advantage going into the break.

After halftime, the pressure didn’t ease. Former Goa state player Pedro Gonsalves doubled the lead in the 53rd minute, calmly finishing past the goalkeeper to all but seal Calangute’s place in the final.

The match, however, wasn’t without its physical moments. Referee decisions led to yellow cards being issued to Pratik Tirodkar, Gauresh, and Aiyan Shaikh for fouls committed during intense play.

Pedro Gonsalves was later named Man of the Match for his composed midfield performance and decisive goal. The award was presented by Franklin Roncon, a representative from the Goa Football Development Council (GFDC).

Calangute Association’s disciplined defense and clinical finishing proved too much for their opponents, and they now head into the final as firm contenders for the inaugural Vedanta Trophy title.