Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Shree Damodar High School, Margao, emerged victorious in the GCA Under-14 Boys Presidents Cup 2025-26, defeating Saraswat Vidyalaya, Mapusa, by 20 runs in an exciting state final played at Chapora Ground on Monday.
After winning the toss, Saraswat Vidyalaya elected to field first. Shree Damodar High School responded with a strong batting display, posting 100 for 3 in their allotted 10 overs. Captain Rumaan Mulam led the charge with a composed 43 off 30 deliveries, anchoring the innings and setting a solid platform for his side. Usman Ghani contributed a valuable 21 runs from 18 balls, while Abishek Lamani provided a late flourish with an unbeaten 13 off just four deliveries.
For Saraswat Vidyalaya, Samarth Dhulapkar was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2 for 14, while Kavish Sawant claimed one wicket.
Chasing 101 for victory, Saraswat Vidyalaya struggled to keep pace with the required run rate and finished on 80 for 5 in 10 overs. Samarth Gawas fought hard with a determined 37 off 28 balls, while Daivik Vaigankar remained unbeaten on 13. However, disciplined bowling from Shree Damodar High School ensured the target remained out of reach.
Captain Rumaan Mulam completed an outstanding all-round performance by taking 2 wickets for 8 runs, while Ansh Kashyap chipped in with a wicket. His contributions with both bat and ball proved decisive in securing the state title for his team.
The triumph capped a remarkable season for Shree Damodar High School’s Under-14 side, which reached three state finals. Under Mulam’s leadership, the team secured two state championship titles and finished runners-up in another tournament, highlighting its consistency and competitive spirit throughout the campaign.
Physical Education teacher Rajan Dhamshekar also played a key role in the team’s success, providing constant support, encouragement and guidance to the players during the season.
The prize distribution ceremony was attended by Prakash Mayekar, GCA Director of Coaching and Cricket Operations, along with Rajan Dhamshekar, Siddesh Salgaonkar, Aniket Mayekar and Ravindra Barve.
With this victory, Shree Damodar High School added another prestigious trophy to its growing collection and reinforced its reputation as one of Goa’s leading school cricket teams.
