South Zone Finals of Sri Sathya Sai National Cricket League Conclude in Hyderabad

Launched in July 2024 at Prasanthi Nilayam, the nationwide T20 tournament saw participation from over 850 teams across India, making it one of the largest grassroots cricket leagues in the world. The league moved through village, district, state, and zonal levels, culminating in a grand finale scheduled for August 15-17, 2025, at Hillview Stadium, Puttaparthi.

The South Zone Finals held from May 23-25 brought together seven state teams—Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka North, Karnataka South, Tamil Nadu North, Tamil Nadu South, and Kerala. The tournament not only showcased cricketing talent but also emphasized the core values of unity, dedication, and community service. All participating players fulfilled the league’s unique eligibility criteria of community service and youth engagement (ages 16-35).

The Opening Ceremony was graced by distinguished guests including, A.K. Khan, Former Police Commissioner and Cabinet-Rank Advisor, Government of Telangana, Jyoti Prasad, Former Test Cricketer, Sai Baba, Former Ranji Trophy Player, Agam Rao, Hyderabad Cricket Association, Prof. E Mukundan, Zonal President, Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations – South Zone, and other eminent dignitaries.

The Closing Ceremony on May 25 saw an equally eminent lineup including H.J. Dora, IPS (Retd.), Former DGP and Vigilance Commissioner, CVC, MSK Prasad, Former Test Cricketer and Chairman, Selection Committee, V.K. Ramaswamy, International Cricket Umpire, Several Ranji Trophy players and state representatives.

Adding stature and inspiration to the tournament is the leadership of legendary West Indies captain Alvin Kallicharran, who is spearheading the initiative in India. Other cricketing legends who have pledged their presence at the upcoming national finals in Prashanti Nilayam include Smt. Mithali Raj, Anjum Chopra, Arjuna Ranatunga, EAS Prasanna, VVS Laxman, Murali Kartik, Lalchand Rajput, and many more.

This unprecedented cricket league has become a unifying force for India's youth, seamlessly integrating the values of sportsmanship, unity, and nation-building through service.

Speaking at the finals, Nimish Pandya, All India President, Sri Satya Sai Seva Organization said, "This tournament is more than cricket—it's about character, community, and commitment to nation-building. We're proud of how it has inspired youth across India to serve selflessly while celebrating the joy of sport."

As the nation eagerly awaits the grand national finals in Puttaparthi, the Sri Sathya Sai National Cricket League continues to echo the divine message of “Love All, Serve All; Help Ever, Hurt Never.”