Three outstation teams to participate for the first time
TEAM HERALD
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MAPUSA: Chowgule Warriors will clash with IPCA, Chandigarh in the inaugural match of 4th Yes Bank Goa Professional League T-20 Cricket organized by Goa Cricket Association at GCA ground, Porvorim, on Sunday, at 9.30 a.m.
Dempo Cricket Club will cross swords with Sarvodaya Royals in the second match at 2 p.m.
This is the first time three outstation teams – IPCA, Chandigarh; RN Sports, Mumbai and Colombo Warriors, Sri Lanka – will participate in the GPL.
Defending champions Salgaocar Cricket Club are clubbed with NRB Vasco, Colombo Warriors and RN Sports in group A while Dempo Cricket Club, Chowgule Warriors, Sarvodaya Royals and IPCA are in group B.
In a glittering opening ceremony, Saturday, chief guest Goa Governor Bharat Vir Wanchoo unveiled the 4th Yes Bank Goa Professional League T-20 Cricket Trophy alongwith guest of honour, Rajendra Arlekar, Speaker of Goa Legislative Assembly, Vinod Phadke GCA president and Chetan Desai secretary at GCA ground, Porvorim.
“I am very happy to be here and would like to congratulate the GCA for their visionary step. Goa is well known for sports and games and the government is making planned efforts to promote the same in an institutionalized and scientific manner. Cricket has emerged as a sport that helps to integrate people internationally,” stated the governor.
“Physical fitness, well-being, personality development, pride, patriotism are some of the qualities we want our youth of today to possess through sports,” added Wanchoo.
Earlier, at Porvorim, Phadke informed that this was the first time that the GCA has associated with Yes Bank, who are the prime sponsors of the fourth edition of the GPL which is budgeted to the tune of Rs 40 lakhs including the prize money.
“The tournament will feature three outstations teams and will be played under the ICC T-20 regulations. Their inclusion will also help Goan players to gain exposure and experience,” said Phadke.
Karan Aluwalia, group executive vice-president and country head of sports banking was grateful to be associated as the main sponsors.
“We have a long standing relationship with the GCA and we are very thankful to be associated with the fourth edition of Goa Premier League. It gives us an opportunity to showcase Yes’ community outreach through sports. We want to support the Goan community and sports is the best way,” declared Aluwalia.
The GCA has kept free entry for the spectators who are expected to turn out in large numbers.
Rohan Kaunte, Porvorim MLA; Vijai Sardesai, Fatorda MLA; Nilkhant Halankar, Goa NCP president; GCA members, presidents and secretaries of cricket clubs and other dignitaries were among those present.
Dr Shekar Salkar, GCA vice-president proposed the vote of thanks.
