CRICKET – THE historic Awali Cricket Club marked another landmark chapter in its storied legacy as it staged its cherished annual President versus Captain match – a tradition that has been faithfully observed since the club’s founding in 1935.
The contest, played in the classic 30-over format between the President’s XI and the Captain’s XI, delivered drama, competition, and camaraderie – culminating in a thrilling tie, with both teams scoring 231 runs.
The best batters in the clash included Aashish Sadashiv of the Captain’s XI, who had 52 runs from 53 balls, including four fours; Saud from President’s XI, who scored 50 runs from 38 balls, including three fours; and Niraj Mukhia, who had 46 runs from 40 balls, including five fours.
Jugal and Kushal Bhatt were the President’s XI top bowlers, while Keval K was the best bowler for the Captain’s XI.
The President’s XI were skippered by Kumar Nair, while the Captain’s XI were marshalled by Jigar Brahambhatt. Both captains steered their respective teams with tactical acumen, and the stalemate was a true reflection of the evenly matched talent on display.
Nair, representing Bapco Energies sports committee as its cricket representative member, underscored the historical and cultural significance of the fixture. “This historic match is a part of Bahrain cricket’s legacy,” he said. “Today’s tied match shows its fierce competitiveness – and that is exactly the spirit that has kept this tradition alive for nine decades.”
The match drew a distinguished gathering of Awali Cricket Club legends, among whom included Raman, Deepak Nair, Ahmed Ismail, Kushal, Neeraj Mukhiya, Stanly Fernandes, and Hemanta Bora.
The match was officiated by Prachur Shukla, who ensured the game was played in the finest spirit of cricket.
The historic Awali Cricket Club, established in 1935, stands as one of the oldest cricket institutions in Bahrain and the wider Gulf region. Its annual President versus Captain match is a cornerstone event in Bahrain’s cricket calendar, symbolising the unity, passion, and competitive fire that have defined the club across nine decades.
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