Surat Crowned Champs At Exciting Grand Finale

The historic grounds of Parsee Gymkhana were charged with palpable energy as the 9^th edition of the Late Maneck Golvala T10 Premier League reached its grand conclusion on 5^th April, 2026. In a high-octane finale that showcased the best of Parsi cricketing talent, Team Surat emerged the undisputed champions, defeating a formidable Team Navsari, to lift the prestigious trophy.

Organised by the Parsee Gymkhana and sponsored by President – Mehli Golvala, the 3-day invitational tournament (3^rd – 5^th April, 2026) evolved from its traditional T20 roots into a lightning-fast T10 format. Five powerhouse teams – Surat, Navsari, Nagpur, Hyderabad, and host Mumbai, converged for the event, ensuring every delivery carried immense weight for fans watching at the venue and via global livestream.

Sports personality Naheed Divecha, Chief Guest for the inauguration ceremony, shared, “I’m grateful to have witnessed a long running event still being revered by our community’s cricket lovers. Passion for your game, dedication and commitment to giving your best is what I believe in and what I witnessed here. Kudos to Parsi Gymkhana committee for their zeal and energy!”

The knockout stages were akin to cricketing masterclasses. In the first semi-finals, Nagpur posted a solid 100/2, but were defeated by Navsari who reached 103/1 in just 9.2, securing a spot in finals. Surat primed for the finale in the second semi-finals, posting 112/3, restricting hosts Parsee Gymkhana to 91/7.

In the championship clash, Surat won the crucial toss and elected to bat first, posting a formidable 105/5 in their 10 overs. Behzad Billimoria’s blistering performance was the highlight – 44 runs off just 18 balls, including 3 boundaries and 4 towering sixes. Navsari’s players put in a valiant effort, but were able to put together 81/4 in their innings. Surat clinched victory with 24 runs.

The tournament concluded with a prestigious awards ceremony, presided by Chief Guest – former Indian cricketer Karsan Ghavri, alongside Vice President and Cricket Secretary, Khodadad Yezdegardi, felicitating the athletes, including Khushru Kadwa (Bowler of the Tournament); Kurush Jagidar (Player of the Tournament); Yohan Doongaji (Batsman of the Tournament); and Behzad Billimoria (Player of the Finals and Best Bowler of the Tournament).

Speaking on the occasion, Karsan Ghavri said, “It was good to see members of the Parsi community come together to play brilliant cricket. I started playing cricket with the ‘Parsi Cyclists’ at Azad maidan, under Captain Polly Umrigar with other cricketing greats like Nari Contractor. It’s unfortunate that the international cricketing scene lacks Parsi talent today. I hope to see more participation from Parsi youth!”

Winning Team, Surat’s Captain, Yazad Variava shared, “This is my fifth year at the tournament, and yet again, the Parsee Gymkhana organising committee ensured a seamless experience, from accommodation to hospitality. After finishing last for four years, our team returned with determination. The competition was intense, with all teams performing admirably. Returning home as champions, the warm celebratory welcome we received made the victory even more memorable.”

“Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed the well-organised tournament. The short format adds excitement and intensity to the game. More such events can help inspire greater interest and passion among Parsi youth,” added Team Navsari Captain, Rohin K Patel

But beyond the scores, the event served as a jubilant gathering for the community, celebrating the enduring legacy of the late Maneck Golvala. While Surat takes home the title, the true winner, through all the tournaments, remains the enduring spirit of Parsi cricket.