Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The newly installed floodlights at the Goa Cricket Association Ground came alive for their first competitive match as Secretary’s XI registered a comfortable six wicket win over President’s XI in an exhibition game on Friday.
The match marked a significant moment for the Goa Cricket Association as the venue hosted its first contest under the recently installed international standard lighting system. The floodlights, set up at a cost of around Rs 4 crore, highlighted the association’s efforts to upgrade cricket infrastructure in the state while also providing a platform for local talent to perform under professional conditions.
President’s XI batted first and posted 130 for 6 in their allotted 15 overs. Vijay Kudtarkar led the scoring with a composed knock of 30 runs from 24 balls, guiding his side to a competitive total. However, the innings struggled to build stronger partnerships as the bowling attack kept the scoring under control.
Secretary’s XI responded confidently in the chase, reaching the target of 131 with five balls remaining. Chaitanya Mardolkar anchored the innings with an unbeaten 37 off 23 deliveries, ensuring the chase remained steady and controlled until the finish.
Mardolkar also delivered a remarkable performance with the ball earlier in the match, producing outstanding figures of 6 for 2. His all round contribution proved decisive and earned him the Man of the Match award.
Viraj Phadke impressed with the ball and was named Best Bowler for Secretary’s XI, while Pandhari Gauns stood out in the field with sharp efforts that secured him the Best Fielder award.
Despite ending on the losing side, President’s XI found a bright spot in Kudtarkar’s batting performance, which earned him the Best Batsman recognition.
The exhibition match not only provided entertaining cricket but also demonstrated the capabilities of the upgraded facilities at the Porvorim venue, marking an important step in strengthening the cricketing infrastructure in Goa.
