The 3rd edition of the North East Cricket Development Council (NECDC) Senior Men’s Interstate Friendship Tournament concluded on 15th May 2025 at the Nagaland Cricket Association Stadium (NCAS), Sovima, Chumoukedima with Meghalaya emerging as the champions after defeating Nagaland in the final.
Meghalaya, after winning the toss, chose to bat first and posted a solid total of 230 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in 50 overs. In response, the host team Nagaland suffered an early batting collapse and was eventually bowled out for 120 runs in 34.3 overs.
Abishek Kumar of Meghalaya was named Man of the Match for his outstanding performance. His teammate Arpit Bhatewara bagged two individual accolades—Best Batsman and Best Wicketkeeper of the tournament. Imliwati from Nagaland was recognized as the Best Bowler, while Jotin Singh Pheiroijam from Manipur was awarded Player of the Tournament.
Nagaland Chief Minister and NECDC Convener, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, who graced the closing ceremony as the chief guest, congratulated the winning team and lauded Nagaland for their previous victories in the tournament. He commended all the participating north-eastern states for their support and contribution to NECDC’s vision of promoting cricket in the region.
Highlighting the challenging journey behind NECDC’s formation, Dr. Rio reflected on the hardships and setbacks that shaped the council’s resilience and unity. He extended gratitude to the BCCI for recognizing and affiliating NECDC as per court directives and reaffirmed the council’s commitment to providing equal sporting opportunities for the youth of the region.
Earlier in the day, Dr. Rio inaugurated the newly established NECDC office at the NCAS complex. He thanked all member states for supporting the decision to set up the headquarters in Nagaland and expressed hope that such friendship tournaments would continue to foster regional growth, collaboration, and unity.
He also urged the youth to participate actively in sports from a young age and appreciated the BCCI’s role in developing infrastructure that meets high standards. Expressing optimism, he said he hopes to see players from the Northeast represent India at the national and international levels.
Short speeches were also delivered by NECDC Co-convener and Meghalaya Cricket Association President, N. Bhattacharjee; BCCI Apex Council Member, M. Khairul Jamal Majumdar; and NECDC Member Secretary and Athletic Federation of India Vice President, Abu Metha.
The event also featured a citation presentation by Manipur Cricket Association Secretary, Leishangthem Ronel Singh, and a tournament report by Arunachal Cricket Association Vice President, Kabak Geda. A special musical performance was presented by Vetholu Rhakho and Azi Rudy.
The closing programme began with a welcome address by Nagaland Cricket Association President, Kechangulie Rio, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Sikkim Cricket Association President, Tika Subba.
(Limatoshi, IA Dimapur)
