Nabarangpur,June 23 {UDN}:: The Maa Khambeswari Cricket Tournament, which began on June 3 at Phuphugaon Panchayat headquarters under Jharigaon Block in Nabarangpur district, concluded .
The final match was attended by Jharigaon MLA Narsingh Bhatra as the Chief Guest. Other distinguished guests included Palia Sarpanch Radha Santa, former Palia Sarpanch Pabitra Santa, social worker Ramesh Harijan, BJP district executive members Firoz Sadangi and Pratap Duria, Phuphugaon Panchayat President Krushna Chandra Majhi, district youth leader Sudam Tiwari, along with several local leaders, elders, and respected members of the community.
A total of 16 teams from different villages of Jharigaon Block participated in the tournament and showcased their cricketing skills throughout the event.
The final match was played between Bhalukanadi and Paurbeli. After winning the toss, Paurbeli elected to field first. Bhalukanadi scored 108 runs, losing all ten wickets in 14.3 overs. In reply, Paurbeli was bowled out for 73 runs in 13.4 overs, handing Bhalukanadi a convincing 35-run victory.
During the prize distribution ceremony, MLA Narsingh Bhatra presented the winning team with a trophy and a cash prize of ₹15,000, while also wishing the players success in their future endeavors. The runners-up team received a trophy and ₹10,000 in cash from Radha Santa and Pratap Duria, who also extended their best wishes to the players.
The tournament featured lively and engaging commentary by Dhanurjaya Nayak, which kept spectators entertained throughout the matches. Balaram Nayak and Lipu Kachim served as the umpires.
Committee members including Nanu Reli, Prabha Kachim, Gobinda Bhatra, Premdas Panka, Raju, Sanu, Satya, Gop, Prem, Babilon, Lachhman, and Sanjay played an active role in organizing and smoothly conducting the tournament from start to finish.
The successful completion of the Maa Khambeswari Cricket Tournament reflected the strong sporting spirit and community participation in the region, encouraging rural youth to actively engage in sports and healthy competition.
