PANAJI
As the Goa Veterans Cricket Association (GVCA) gears up to host the third edition of the GVCA Veterans Cricket Tournament from November 13 to 15 at the SAG Chicalim and GCA Porvorim grounds, GVCA President and Secretary of the Board of Veteran Cricket in India (BVCI), Vinod Phadke, has outlined his vision to further strengthen the veterans’ cricket ecosystem in the state.
Phadke emphasized that his key priority is to build a stronger structure for veterans’ cricket by organizing regular tournaments and improving facilities for senior players. “We want to ensure that those who’ve contributed to the sport continue to enjoy competitive cricket with the right infrastructure and support,” he said.
The Goa Veterans Cricket Association (GVCA) was started with the intent to provide opportunities to passionate and hardworking players who, despite their dedication, couldn’t break into the state Ranji team. Their dreams often remained unfulfilled ” and GVCA became a platform for them to keep those dreams alive.
Through initiatives like the Indian Veterans Premier League (IVPL), these players now get the incredible chance to share the field with cricketing legends such as Chris Gayle, Virender Sehwag, and Suresh Raina. “Watching them play alongside such icons gives me immense happiness and satisfaction,” said Phadke. “Last year, three of our players went on to represent various franchises in the IVPL ” a proud moment for all of us at GVCA.”
Under his leadership, GVCA has been working closely with the BVCI to host interstate and zonal competitions, including one successfully organized in Goa in 2023. Phadke noted that these efforts help create more opportunities for senior cricketers nationwide.
Addressing challenges in organizing structured tournaments, Phadke credited the Goa Cricket Association (GCA) for its continued assistance. “Infrastructure and participation are key challenges, but with the support of GCA President Mahesh Dessai and his team, we’ve been able to ensure smooth organization and growth,” he added.
Looking ahead, Phadke confirmed that Goa will host more national-level veterans’ tournaments in the coming seasons, combining the promotion of sport with tourism. “Veterans’ cricket keeps experienced players connected to the game, inspires younger generations, and sustains the spirit of cricket across ages,” he concluded.
