PANAJI
Goan Varta stormed into the semi-finals of the Inter-Media Cricket Tournament organised by the Goa Sports Journalists Association (GSJA), delivering commanding performances at the Panaji Gymkhana ground.
Gangaram Sawant starred with a scintillating 67 to earn the ‘Player of the Match’ award, while Sachin Dalvi returned impressive figures of 3 for 5 to guide the team into the last four. Earlier, in their match against Lokmat, Anuj Redkar was adjudged ‘Player of the Match’ for his match-winning effort.
Goan Varta registered one-sided victories over Lokmat in their opening fixture and Gomantak in a crucial second match to seal their semi-final berth. The team dominated both with the bat and ball on the opening day of the tournament.
In the semi-finals, Goan Varta will take on The Times of India, who also booked their place in the final four after a comfortable win against Rashtra TV.
The tournament is being organised in collaboration with the Goa Cricket Association and the Sports Authority of Goa (SAG). The event was inaugurated by SAG Executive Director Dr Ajay Gaude. GSJA President Mahesh Gaonkar, Secretary Dheeraj Mhambre and Treasurer Aniruddha Raul were among the dignitaries present on the dais.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Gaude emphasised the importance of prioritising health, especially for journalists who often work under tight deadlines and pressure. He noted that journalists serve as a crucial link between athletes, sports bodies and society, and must balance professional responsibilities with personal well-being.
He further assured full government support for the association’s initiatives, stating that such tournaments help relieve stress, promote physical fitness and foster unity among media professionals.
GSJA President Mahesh Gaonkar added that the association will continue to organise sports and social activities in the future, underlining that tournaments for journalists are not merely recreational but also essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
