Chairman, Deendayal Port Authority inaugurates the 43rd All India Major Ports Cricket Tournament

The much-anticipated 43rd All India Major Ports Cricket Tournament was officially inaugurated on January 22, 2025, by Shri Sushil Kumar Singh, IRSME, Chairman of Deendayal Port Authority (DPA).

This prestigious tournament features nine teams representing India’s major ports:

1. Visakhapatnam Port
2. Paradip Port
3. Mumbai Port
4. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata
5. Jawaharlal Nehru Port
6. Chennai Port
7. New Mangalore Port
8. V.O. Chidambaranar Port
9. Host Team: Deendayal Port

The event commenced with a warm and vibrant welcome for all players, accompanied by music and cheers.

In his welcome address, Shri Harichandran, Secretary (DPA), expressed gratitude to the Chairman for his dedication to organizing the event and extended his best wishes to the players, encouraging them to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship. Shri Nandeesh Shukla, IRTS, Deputy Chairman (DPA), urged participants to play wholeheartedly and create lasting memories.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Sushil Kumar Singh, IRSME, Chairman (DPA), warmly welcomed all participants on behalf of the Deendayal Port family. He assured the players of the best possible facilities and highlighted the significance of sports in building character and fostering camaraderie. Citing the words of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, “Kheloge to Khiloge”, he inspired all to play with true sportsmanship and develop enduring relationships through the tournament.

The ceremony continued with the hoisting of the All India Major Sports Control Board flag by the Chairman, followed by a group march by the team captains. Players took an oath to uphold the spirit of the game, marking the official start of the championship. The inaugural match was contested between Deendayal Port and Jawaharlal Nehru Port.

The tournament will feature 13 matches in total, with two semi-final matches scheduled for January 25. The final match, along with a playoff for third place, will be held on January 26. Morning and evening matches will take place at the Shyamji Krishna Varma Pavilion in Gopalpuri, while afternoon matches will be held at the “Krishnanam Ground” in Meghpar Borichi, as per the schedule.