ICA hosts inaugural Inter-Indian Cricket Tournament | Daily FT

• Event showcases celebration of unity and sportsmanship

5 May marked a momentous occasion for the Indian community as the Indian Cultural Association (ICA) organised its 1st Inter-Indian Cricket Tournament. 

Held amidst great enthusiasm and camaraderie, the event brought together nine teams representing various Indian Diaspora, creating a vibrant tapestry of cultures, sportsmanship, and unity.

The tournament, hosted at the picturesque Colts Cricket Club, was graced by the presence of the Indian High Commissioner Santhosh Jha, who served as the chief guest. During his address, Jha commended the ICA for fostering a spirit of unity through sports and emphasised the importance of such events in strengthening community bonds. “Cricket has always been a unifying force for Indians worldwide. This tournament is a testament to our shared love for the game and our rich cultural heritage,” he remarked.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the participation of the 1996 World Cup-winning Sri Lankan team, which played an exhibition match that enthralled the spectators. The Sri Lankan legends, including Arjuna Ranatunga, Arvinda De Silva, Upul Chandana, Nuwan Zoysa, Ravindra Pushpakumara and many more demonstrated their timeless skills, much to the delight of the crowd. Their presence not only elevated the tournament’s profile but also provided a nostalgic journey for cricket aficionados, recalling the iconic moments from the 1996 World Cup.

The tournament featured a series of competitive matches, with each team showcasing its talent and determination. The atmosphere was electric as supporters cheered for their respective teams, waving flags and enjoying the festive ambiance. The matches were played in a round-robin league format, ensuring that each team had ample opportunity to display their prowess on the field. The strategic time out was filled with a much entertaining friendly all-women’s match between ICA and HCI.

After a day filled with thrilling cricket action, Team High Commission of India emerged victorious, clinching the 1st championship trophy. Their all-round performance and strategic gameplay were key factors in their success. The runners-up, Team Tamil, put up a valiant fight, making the final match an exhilarating contest.

Santhosh Jha, along with the ICA Executive Members and the official Sponsors, presented the trophies and medals to the winning team and runners-up. Individual awards were also given for outstanding performances, including Best Batsman, Best Bowler, and Player of the Tournament, adding to the excitement of the event.

The ICA President Capt. Anirban Banerjee, expressed his gratitude to all the participants, volunteers, and sponsors who contributed to the success of the tournament. “This event has been a dream come true for us. The overwhelming response and the spirit of sportsmanship exhibited today have been truly inspiring. We hope to make this an annual tradition, bringing together more teams and creating more memorable experiences,” he said.

The day concluded with Indian music and dance, further highlighting the rich cultural diversity of the Indian community. Attendees enjoyed a variety of Indian cuisines, adding a culinary delight to the celebration.

The 1st Inter-Indian Cricket Tournament by ICA was not just a sporting event but a celebration of unity, heritage, and the enduring love for cricket. It successfully brought together different facets of the Indian diaspora, fostering a sense of community and mutual respect. As the sun set on a day of excitement and joy, the participants and spectators left with memories to cherish and a shared anticipation for the next edition of this remarkable event.