Utkal Rising Stars Clinch Odisha Cup 2025 Title in Ajman

Ajman (UAE): Utkal Rising Stars lifted the Odisha Cup 2025 trophy after a convincing victory over Kalinga Warriors in the final of the tournament, organised by the Odisha Cup Sports Association of the UAE.

The 12th edition of the prestigious cricket tournament concluded at The Seven Districts Club in Ajman amid enthusiastic participation from the Odia diaspora.

In the title clash, Utkal Rising Stars, batting first, were bowled out for 127 runs in the stipulated 20 overs. Despite a determined effort, Kalinga Warriors fell short of the target, managing only 102 runs for the loss of nine wickets, handing Utkal Rising Stars a comfortable win.

Rajendra Pallai delivered an impactful performance to earn the Player of the Match award. The final match and closing ceremony were graced by Ollywood actress Sivani Sangita, who attended the event as the chief guest, adding glamour to the occasion.

Speaking on the significance of the tournament, Odisha Cup advisor and senior business management professional Priyadarshi Panigrahi said the Odisha Cup has evolved into the largest in-person gathering of Odias living across the Middle East and North Africa, strengthening cultural bonds through sport.

The successful organisation of the tournament was supported by senior members of the Odisha Cup Sports Association, including Rajat Rath, Sambhram Pattnaik, Nirlipta Mohanty, Abanikanta Patra, Chinmaya Kumar Jena, Imdad Mohammad, Deb Mishra, Amriten Chatterjee, Jyoti Ranjan Panda, Sujit Khatua, Ashish Nayak, Ajit Patra, Duryodhan Pradhan and Soumya Ranjan Panda.

The Odisha Cup once again reaffirmed its status as a major sporting and cultural platform for the Odia community abroad.