PRAKHAR MISHRA, Sr.Journalist
Dehradun, February 8: The much-anticipated 6th 20-20 Cricket Urja Cup began with great enthusiasm as Senior Secretary of Housing and Energy, Meenakshi Sundaram, inaugurated the tournament in a traditional manner by cutting the ribbon and releasing balloons. Adding to the excitement, he even showcased his cricketing skills by playing a few shots.
A unique highlight of this year’s tournament is the participation of four women’s cricket teams from different government departments, whose matches will be played in a 10-over format with softballs. Meanwhile, 20 teams from various government departments are competing in the men’s category, with matches following the 20-over format.
During the inauguration ceremony, Meenakshi Sundaram encouraged the players and emphasized the importance of sports in maintaining physical fitness. Citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks at the 38th National Games, he reiterated the need for fitness to combat rising obesity and related health issues. He also extended special encouragement to the underprivileged girls from Apna Ghar Balika & Mahila Utthan Samiti, taking the time to interact and capture moments with them.
MATCH 1: SACHIVALAYA VS INCOME TAX – SHAILENDRA RAUTHAN KAKU SHINES
The first match of the tournament featured Sachivalaya taking on the Income Tax team at the Aryan Chhetri Cricket Ground in Dehradun. Sachivalaya won the toss and opted to bat first, putting up an impressive total of 224/4 in 20 overs.
Shailendra Rauthan Kaku was the star of the match, smashing a stunning century (120 off 61 balls, 10 fours, 7 sixes) at an incredible strike rate of 196.72. He was well-supported by Pramod Negi (79 off 38 balls, 8 fours, 6 sixes, SR: 207.89) and Vishal Sharma (87 off 47 balls, 10 fours, 4 sixes, SR: 185.11).
In response, Income Tax struggled to chase the target and could only manage 159/8 in 20 overs, losing by 65 runs. Vishal Sharma put up a valiant fight, scoring 87 off 47 balls, but lacked support from other batters. The bowling attack from Sachivalaya was led by Rohan (4-0-24-2) and Madan (3-0-28-2), who kept the opposition under pressure.
MATCH 2: POST OFFICE UTTARAKHAND VS RURAL DEVELOPMENT – BOWLING BRILLIANCE SEALS THE WIN
The second match of the day saw Post Office Uttarakhand taking on Rural Development Department. Post Office Uttarakhand, after winning the toss, elected to bat first and scored 133/10 in 14.1 overs. Naveen Rawat played a crucial knock of 59 off 45 balls, supported by Braham Dutt (28 off 14 balls) and Sumit (19 off 15 balls).
Chasing the target, Rural Development Department struggled to build momentum and managed only 106/9 in 16 overs, falling short by 27 runs. Naveen Rawat remained unbeaten on 59 runs, but the rest of the batting lineup failed to contribute significantly.
The bowling unit of Post Office Uttarakhand was instrumental in the victory, with Rajesh Gaur (3.1-0-22-4), Mohit Tomar (3-0-23-4), and Mukesh Gaur (3-0-19-3) delivering exceptional performances to dismantle the opposition.
TROPHIES UNVEILED, MORE EXCITING MATCHES AHEAD
During the inauguration, Meenakshi Sundaram also unveiled the glittering trophies that will be awarded to the champions in both men’s and women’s categories. The tournament promises more exciting contests in the coming days, with government department teams competing fiercely for the title.
With a spectacular opening day filled with power-packed performances, the 6th Urja Cup has set the stage for an electrifying season ahead.
