The Second Department Premier League, organized by the Department Cricket Development Committee of Uttarakhand, took place from December 1 to December 12, 2023, in Dehradun. Building on the success of the inaugural tournament, this edition featured nine teams, highlighting the growing enthusiasm and participation in the league. The teams included Tax Flickers, Education Super Giants, Sidcul Raising Star, Urja Power Panthers, Jal JB Braves, Sachivalaya Super Kings, Food Warriors, Agriculture Super Warriors, and Royal Sports. The tournament was a grand celebration of cricket, teamwork, and sportsmanship, showcasing the talent and competitive spirit of government department employees.
Teams and Participants
The league welcomed a diverse set of teams, each representing different sectors and departments:
- Tax Flickers – A formidable team known for their strategic gameplay and a mix of experienced and new players.
- Education Super Giants – Representing the education sector, this team emphasized discipline and a strategic approach to the game.
- Sidcul Raising Star – A new entrant, this team represented the State Infrastructure and Industrial Development Corporation of Uttarakhand Limited (SIDCUL) and showcased promising talent.
- Urja Power Panthers – Known for their powerful batting lineup and solid bowling, they were one of the tournament’s favorites.
- Jal JB Braves – Representing the water resources sector, they brought a balanced team with strengths in both batting and bowling.
- Sachivalaya Super Kings – This team, composed of members from the secretariat, was noted for its tactical play and strong teamwork.
- Food Warriors – The eventual champions, known for their all-round abilities and consistent performances.
- Agriculture Super Warriors – Bringing a mix of seasoned players and fresh talent, this team represented the agricultural sector.
- Royal Sports – A team known for its disciplined play and sportsmanship, representing the administrative services.
Tournament Overview
The tournament followed a round-robin format, with each team playing against the others, resulting in a total of 39 matches. The matches were played on various grounds in Dehradun, drawing large crowds of supporters, including colleagues, family members, and cricket enthusiasts from the local community.
The competition was intense, with each team striving to outdo the others. The tournament featured a total of 11,054 runs, 549 wickets, 1,034 fours, and 283 sixes, underscoring the high standard of cricket on display. The matches were characterized by thrilling moments, close contests, and standout individual performances.
Key Highlights and Statistics
The tournament saw several standout performances, with many players making significant contributions. The most valuable player of the tournament was Mrinal Rawat from the Food Warriors, who excelled with both bat and ball. His consistent performances were instrumental in leading his team to victory.
The final match was a spectacular showdown between Food Warriors and GST Eric. The Food Warriors emerged as champions, demonstrating excellent teamwork and skill. Tax Flickers, despite putting up a strong fight, finished as the runners-up. The final match was a fitting conclusion to a tournament filled with exciting cricket and outstanding individual performances.
Conclusion
The Second Department Premier League was a resounding success, thanks to the efforts of the Department Cricket Development Committee of Uttarakhand. The tournament not only provided a platform for showcasing cricketing talent but also fostered a spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship among the participants. It highlighted the importance of physical activity and teamwork, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle among government employees.
This edition of the league, with the inclusion of a new team and increased participation, reflected the growing popularity and success of the tournament. The high level of competition and the enthusiastic support from the community made the event a memorable one. The success of the Second Department Premier League has set the stage for future editions, with expectations of even greater participation and higher standards of cricket.
The Department Premier League has undoubtedly become a cornerstone event in Uttarakhand’s sporting calendar. It not only brings together government employees from various sectors but also serves as a platform for building relationships and promoting physical fitness. The tournament’s success is a testament to the organizational efforts and the passion for cricket within the state. As the league continues to grow, it is poised to become a significant event in the regional sports scene, encouraging more participation and fostering a love for the game.
