Surat, March 12 – The highly anticipated Season 5 of the Surat Cricket League commenced in a grand ceremony under the aegis of the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) and hosted by the Surat District Cricket Association (SDCA). The tournament, sponsored by Kratos Lifestyle Club and Yashvi Foundation, saw the presence of several dignitaries during the opening event.
The inauguration was graced by notable personalities, including GCA Secretary Anil Patel, GCA CEO Dhiraj Jogani, Chief Selector Kirat Damani, former Indian fast bowler Rakesh Patel, and Ranji Trophy coach Hitesh Majmudar. SDCA Honorary Secretary Hitesh Patel delivered the welcome speech, while Cricket Secretary Dr. Naimesh Desai presented the tournament report. Representatives from Gujarat Cricket Association, including Kirat Damani and Anil Patel, encouraged players with their motivational addresses. The event commenced with a mesmerizing Ganesh Vandana performance by Dimple Deputy Shah and her team from Kalashree, setting a spiritual tone for the competition.
Franchise owners, including Dhaval Shah (Surat Strikers), Sanjay Patel, Kevin Patel, and Vinod Patel (Magdalla Lions), Kirit Desai and Subhash Desai (Gopin Developers), B.K. Patel and Vishva Patel (Dumas Eleven), Avni Patel, Rohan Patel, Hemant Patel, and Pallavi Patel (Kailash Sports), Parth Donda and Snehal Balsara (Parth Tex), and Santasindh (Shri Sports), attended the opening ceremony with their respective teams.
Hospitality partners such as Marriott, Le Meridien, Ginger, Ramee International, and Olive Club were acknowledged for their support. Additionally, award sponsors, including Larsen & Toubro, Vedanta Group, and Silvi, were honored with a round of applause.
In front of an enthusiastic crowd of cricket fans, the first match of the tournament featured a thrilling clash between Surat Strikers and Magdalla Lions. After an intense contest, Magdalla Lions emerged victorious with a narrow 7-run win. Their captain, Arya Desai, played a spectacular innings, scoring 82 runs off 48 balls, earning him the Man of the Match award.
