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Sports

World Legends Pro T20 Delivers a Grand Finale to Remember in Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

The World Legends Pro T20 League concluded in spectacular fashion on Tuesday night, bringing down the curtains on a tournament that successfully blended nostalgia, competitiveness and high-quality cricket, while firmly establishing Goa as a destination capable of hosting marquee sporting events.

Over the past few weeks, the league brought together some of the most iconic names in world cricket, delivering thrilling contests and moments that reminded fans why these players once ruled the global stage. Packed stadiums, strong broadcast viewership and a festive atmosphere both on and off the field underlined the growing appeal of the tournament.

World Cup-winning captain and League Commissioner Michael Clarke praised both the cricket on display and the setting that hosted it, noting that the tournament showcased Goa beyond its image as a holiday destination. He highlighted the quality of facilities, the enthusiastic crowds and the enjoyment expressed by players throughout the competition.

Despite having retired from international cricket, the legends approached each match with unmistakable intensity. Clarke remarked that the hunger to win never fades, with players still eager to perform, compete and deliver at the highest level. Several performances throughout the tournament reinforced this competitive edge.

The league produced multiple headline moments, including Martin Guptill’s sublime century, described by Clarke as among the finest innings of his career, and Piyush Chawla’s sensational hat-trick that electrified fans. These performances ensured the competition was far more than a nostalgic exhibition.

With evenly matched teams and close finishes throughout the league stage, the knockout rounds brought out the very best in the players. Clarke noted that the balance across teams played a key role in the tournament’s success, making the semifinals and final particularly compelling.

Leadership emerged as another defining element of the tournament, with Clarke singling out Harbhajan Singh’s captaincy for its tactical sharpness and calm decision-making under pressure, which translated into consistent on-field performances.

As the inaugural edition comes to a close, the World Legends Pro T20 leaves behind more than memorable matches. It has reaffirmed the enduring appeal of cricket’s legends, delivered a fresh entertainment product for fans, and opened the door for Goa to play a larger role on the international sporting calendar.

Travel

Aguad Port and Jail Complex to Represent Goa at Asia’s Largest Travel Mart, OTM 2026

Tanisha Cardozo

One of Goa’s most iconic heritage spaces, the Aguad Port and Jail Complex, is set to make its presence felt at the Outbound Travel Mart (OTM) 2026, to be held from February 5 to 7 at Mumbai’s Jio World Convention Centre. Representing Goa on one of Asia’s largest travel trade platforms, Aguad will showcase the state’s rich cultural history and evolving tourism experiences to a global audience.

OTM is regarded as one of the leading international travel trade exhibitions, focusing on the travel, tourism, hospitality and MICE industries. The event brings together travel brands, destinations, tour operators, buyers and industry professionals from across the world. With around 2,200 exhibitors from over 60 countries, the exhibition is expected to welcome more than 50,000 visitors over the three-day event.

At OTM 2026, the Aguad Port and Jail Complex aims to highlight the diverse experiences offered at the site. These include immersive heritage walks that narrate the complex’s role as a strategic defence structure and as a prison that once housed freedom fighters. By blending historical narratives with curated visitor engagement, Aguad positions itself as a space where Goa’s layered past meets contemporary cultural tourism.

Experiences such as heritage cruises and boat transfers will also be showcased, offering visitors panoramic views of Goa’s coastline, the Aguad Port and Jail Complex, and the surrounding Aguada Bay as vessels glide through the Arabian Sea. These offerings are being positioned as complete experiences that combine scenic beauty, history and leisure.

Speaking about the participation, Savio Mathias, Vice President – Operations and Business Development, Aguad Port and Jail Complex, said that Aguad is more than just a historic landmark and represents a space where Goa’s history comes alive through thoughtfully curated visitor experiences. He noted that OTM provides an ideal platform to present Aguad as a key destination in Goa, with potential for cultural tourism, events and immersive programming, while also fostering collaborations that promote responsible tourism and enhance visitor engagement.

With its participation at OTM 2026, the Aguad Port and Jail Complex continues to strengthen its position as a significant cultural destination, offering visitors an opportunity to experience Goa beyond its beaches through history, heritage and meaningful storytelling.

Sports

Goa’s Madar Basappa Shines as India Legends Storm into Asian Legend Cup 2026 Final

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa’s Madar Basappa produced a match-defining performance with the ball as India Legends registered a thumping 104-run victory over Hong Kong in a league match of the Asian Legend Cup 2026 in Thailand, sealing their place in the tournament final. The win marked yet another dominant display by the Indian side in an impressive campaign.

After opting to bat first, India Legends piled up a massive 240 for 4 in their allotted 20 overs, powered by aggressive knocks from Bhanu Seth, Parminder and Amer Khan. The imposing total put Hong Kong under immense pressure from the outset, setting the stage for India’s bowlers to take control of the contest.

Madar Basappa emerged as the standout performer with the ball, delivering an exceptional spell of 3 wickets for just 17 runs in his four overs. Bowling with sharp control, variation and discipline, the Goan all-rounder struck at crucial moments to dismantle Hong Kong’s chase. He removed Kamal as the batter attempted to steady the innings, dismissed Ibrez soon after, and then produced a key moment by stumping Iftikhar to halt any hopes of a recovery. His economy rate of 3.75 reflected the pressure he consistently applied on the batters.

Hong Kong were eventually restricted to 136 in 20 overs, never able to recover from the damage inflicted by Basappa and the disciplined Indian bowling unit. While Bhanu Seth was named Player of the Match for his explosive batting performance, Madar Basappa’s spell stood out as one of the defining highlights of the encounter.

Basappa’s contribution brought pride to Goa as he showcased his talent on a major international stage. The all-rounder has also represented Gomanchal Warriors in the GVCL tournament and continues to strengthen his reputation as a dependable match-winner. India Legends have enjoyed a dominant run in the tournament, beginning with a six-wicket win over Sri Lanka, followed by a comprehensive 77-run victory against arch-rivals Pakistan and a close 12-run win over Bangladesh, underlining their strong form heading into the final of the Asian Legend Cup 2026.

Sports

Desserts N More Avengers, RC Goa Register Thrilling Wins in PGML 5.0

Tanisha Cardozo

Spectators at the Panaji Gymkhana ground were treated to two closely fought league encounters on Saturday in the ongoing PGML 5.0 tournament, with Desserts N More Avengers and RC Goa emerging victorious in nail-biting finishes.

In the morning match, Sun Estate Warriors won the toss and elected to bat but were restricted to 125 for 9 in their 20 overs. Mehank Dharwadkar stood firm with an unbeaten 48, while opener Devidas Kholkar chipped in with 31. Despite a steady start, regular wickets in the middle order curtailed the Warriors’ progress. Madar Basappa was the pick of the bowlers for Desserts N More Avengers, finishing with two wickets, while Ojas, Amod Borkar, Vikas Shetty and Muktiar Kadri claimed one wicket each.

Chasing 126, Desserts N More Avengers paced their innings carefully to reach 129 for 6 in 19.1 overs. Amod Borkar anchored the chase with a composed 50 off 42 deliveries. In the closing stages, Smit Dalvi and Suraj Hirani remained unbeaten to guide their side to a four-wicket win. Dhilan Shah was the standout bowler for Sun Estate Warriors with two wickets, while Rohit Rane picked up one.

The afternoon fixture saw Manas Mavericks post 128 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs after opting to bat. Ajinkya Kudtarkar top-scored with 38, supported by Avishkar Mone’s 21 and an unbeaten 18 from Raj Morajkar. RC Goa’s bowling attack shared the spoils, with Kushnab Ghai and Ramnath Gaonkar claiming two wickets each, while Aryan Mashelkar, Gauresh Khandeparkar and Vardhan Prabhu Misquin contributed with one wicket apiece.

RC Goa responded positively in their chase, reaching 134 for 7 in 19.3 overs to seal a three-wicket victory. Ramnath Gaonkar played a steady innings of 41, with valuable contributions from Aryan Mashelkar (21) and Paras Naik (20). The match swung decisively in the final overs as Gauresh Khandeparkar smashed a quick 18 off just five balls, remaining unbeaten alongside Dattesh Priolkar to take RC Goa home. For Manas Mavericks, Avishkar Mone and Om Fadte picked up two wickets each, while Ajinkya Kudtarkar claimed one.

With both matches delivering tense finishes, PGML 5.0 continues to live up to its reputation as one of Goa’s most competitive and entertaining local cricket tournaments.

International

BLACKPINK’s Lisa and Win Metawin Spark Excitement with Regal Joint Appearance at Thailand Event

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Intern Swara Bodke || Team Allycaral

BLACKPINK member Lisa and popular Thai actor Win Metawin sent fans into a frenzy after they were spotted together at the prestigious Amazing Thailand Ambassador Exclusive Night. The high-profile event, celebrating Thailand’s culture and global influence, brought the two stars together as part of the country’s international tourism campaign, instantly becoming a talking point across social media platforms.

Fresh from wrapping up BLACKPINK’s globally successful DEADLINE World Tour alongside Jennie, Rosé and Jisoo, Lisa made a striking appearance that blended couture elegance with deep cultural significance. She wore a Balmain Haute Couture gown inspired by Pierre Balmain’s Spring/Summer 1960 collection, originally reimagined for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother of Thailand. The ensemble featured a golden bandeau top and voluminous sleeves woven with traditional Thai textiles, paired with a butter-yellow duchesse satin wrap skirt that flowed effortlessly, creating a sculptural yet graceful silhouette. Completing the look with a matching stole, Lisa elevated the ensemble further with exquisite Bvlgari high jewellery, reinforcing her status as a global fashion icon.

Standing beside her was Win Metawin, one of Thailand’s most popular young actors and also a key face of the Amazing Thailand campaign. Win opted for a sleek all-black ensemble, pairing a classic shirt and tie with straight-leg trousers and a velvet blazer. Adding a meaningful cultural touch, he wore a golden brooch shaped like Thailand, subtly echoing the evening’s theme of national pride. The duo were seen interacting warmly on stage and posing together for photographers, moments that quickly went viral online.

Fans flooded social media with admiration, praising not only their visuals but also the symbolic pairing of two of Thailand’s most globally recognised cultural ambassadors. Many highlighted the chemistry between the two, while others applauded the way fashion, heritage and modern stardom came together in a single frame. Comments celebrating Lisa as a “global princess” and Win as Thailand’s “proud representative” dominated timelines, further amplifying the event’s impact.

While Lisa continues to expand her influence beyond music into fashion and cultural representation, Win Metawin is gearing up for his next major project, the historical fantasy drama Scarlet Heart Thailand, currently under production. Their appearance together underscored the growing global spotlight on Thai talent and culture, making the night not just a fashion moment, but a celebration of Thailand’s evolving presence on the world stage.