Port Blair, April 8: The grand finale of DGP Cup 2024 Season-II T-20 League-cum-knockout Cricket Tournament unfolded yesterday in a spectacular display of cricketing prowess and sportsmanship, graced by the esteemed presence of Shri Keshav Chandra, IAS, as the Chief Guests. Shri Devesh Chandra Srivastva, IPS, DGP of A&N Islands, Rear Admiral Sandeep Singh Sandhu, NM, Chief of Staff, Andaman & Nicobar Command had also graced the occasion. The event marked the culmination of weeks of intense competition, showcasing the best of the sport amidst an atmosphere charged with excitement and anticipation.

A total of 43 teams participated in the tournament, including Inter Island teams from Rangat, Swarajdweep, Bakultala, and Car Nicobar. Teams from various departments viz. A&N Administration, DC Office (SA), A&N Forest Team, Directorate of Shipping Service, Port Blair Municipal Council & A&N Police also took part. The tournament featured 111 matches, spanning 41 days with 95 league matches, 8 pre-quarterfinals, 4 quarterfinals, 2 semi-finals, and a final.

In a thrilling showdown between the finalist Team "Police" and Team "Chai Sutta Bar", fans witnessed a clash of titans as both teams left nothing on the field in their pursuit of victory. From breath-taking strokes to impeccable bowling, the match was a testament to the skill and determination of the players, captivating spectators until the final ball was bowled.

As the sun set on the stadium, it was Team "Chai Sutta Bar" who emerged victorious, claiming the title of champions of "DGP Cup-2024" Their remarkable performance throughout the tournament was duly rewarded, cementing their place in cricketing history and inspiring future generations of players.

Shri Sewak Lall of Team "DSS" bagged the Man of the Tournament while Shri Ramesh Pandey of Team "Chai Sutta Bar" and Shri Damodar Pillai of Team "Police" were declared best bowler and batsman for the tournament.

In a festive atmosphere, the victorious team, Chai Sutta Bar, was presented with the Trophy and a winning amount of Rs. 1,00,000/-. The runners-up, A&N Police Team-A, were awarded the Trophy and Rs. 50,000/-, by the Dignitaries. Notably, both the winning and runner-up teams had maintained an unbeaten record throughout the entire tournament in their way to the finals.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief Secretary lauded the commendable sporting efforts of the Andaman & Nicobar Police for the citizens of the A&N Islands. Subsequently, the DGP, A&N Islands, emphasized the invaluable role of sports in maintaining the health and well-being of the Island's youth, as well as providing opportunities for career growth.

It's worth mentioning that the inaugural season of the DGP Cup – 2023 Cricketing Tournament took place with participation of 40 teams, culminating with the A&N Police Team emerging as tournament champions.

The DGP Cup 2024 (Season-II) T-20 League-cum-Knockout Cricket Tournament stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of sportsmanship and unity within the A&N Islands community. The Andaman & Nicobar Police extends its heartfelt gratitude to all participants, supporters, and organizers for their firm dedication in making the event a resounding success.