Fostering community bonds through sports: UAE’s largest Prabasi Odia Cricket Tournament concludes

The Odisha Cup Sports Association recently concluded the 2024 Odisha Cup, the largest Prabasi Cricket tournament for the Odia diaspora worldwide, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The event came to a thrilling conclusion on January 19 at the Seven Estates Grounds in Ajman, as teams from all seven Emirates competed.

This year's Odisha Cup witnessed a record participation of 18 teams from all 7 Emirates of UAE, making it the largest edition since its inception in 2014.

Exciting Finale

The competition began on September 29, 2024, and culminated in an exhilarating finale between Kalinga Warriors and SAM-11 Ajman-Odisha. SAM-11 Ajman-Odisha set a challenging total of 153 runs in their 20 overs, thanks to Imran Khan's explosive innings of 75 runs from 34 deliveries. 

The Kalinga Warriors' response fell short as they were bowled out for 87 in 17.1 overs, propelled by skilful bowling from Nehal Akhtar, Abdul Ahad, and Imran Khan. Imran Khan's stellar performance ensured he was awarded both Man of the Match and Man of the Series.

Community Attendance and Cultural Celebrations

The final saw an impressive turnout of over 700 spectators, predominantly from the Odia community, who gathered with their families to enjoy both the sport and traditional Odia cuisine. The occasion was enhanced by the presence of prominent personalities such as Suryamayee Mohapatra, a renowned actress in Odia cinema, who conveyed her pride in witnessing such a significant diaspora gathering. 

Furthermore, Pabitra Kumar Majumder, Consul (Consular, Labour, and Madad), lauded the event's scale and vibrant ambiance.

Organisers' Dedication and Future Prospects

Sailaj Das, an advisor for the Odisha Cup and the Managing Director of Turbo Power Engineering, expressed his appreciation for the dedication demonstrated by the players and organisers, noting the significance of such a grand gathering. 

Priyadarshee Panigrahi, another advisor and Senior Business Management Expert, described it as the largest private congregation of Odias in the Middle East and North Africa, highlighting its role in fostering community bonds in the UAE.

Soumya Patnaik, also an advisor and Managing Director of Panbulk Shipping DMCC, congratulated the community and the association for their continued achievements. Key organisers including Rajat Rath, Sushant Jena, and Nirlipta Mohanty, along with integral staff such as Chinmay Kumar Jena, Abnikant Patro, and others, worked tirelessly to ensure the event's success.

Since its establishment in 2014, the Odisha Cup has evolved to become the largest sporting event related to Odisha outside India. This year's edition has been the most expansive, underscoring the event's appeal within the community.