Bhubaneswar: The stage is set for another exciting chapter in Odisha cricket as the Odisha T20 League CM Trophy returns with six franchises set to compete for the title at the iconic Barabati Stadium in Kataka from September 20 to 29.
The tournament, which has been named the CM Trophy to reflect the vision and support of the Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi towards the development and promotion of cricket and sports in Odisha, will provide a major platform for the state’s emerging cricketers to showcase their talent on a bigger stage.
The six participating teams are Kataka Panthers, Bhubaneswar Tigers, Rourkela Steelers, Keonjhar Miners, Puri Titans and Sambalpur Warriors.
The players’ draft will be held September 6, ahead of the 17-match tournament.
The trophy was unveiled in the presence of the Office Bearers of Odisha Cricket Association, marking the formal launch of the second edition of the tournament Sunday.
The event was attended by Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, President, OCA; Prabhat Bhol, Joint Secretary, OCA; Bikash Pradhan, Treasurer, OCA, and Pratap Chandra Pradhan, Apex Council Member, OCA.
The previous edition saw KatakaPanthers emerge as champions, and the six teams will now look to build on that competition and challenge for the trophy in the new season.
Speaking about the tournament, the Odisha Cricket Association President said, “The Odisha T20 League CM Trophy is an important step towards strengthening the cricketing ecosystem in the state.
Our focus is not only on organising a competitive tournament but also on creating a platform where young players can perform, learn and grow.
We want Odisha’s talented cricketers to get the exposure they need to take their careers forward.”
The league will also place a strong focus on giving Odisha’s players greater visibility.
With matches being played at the Barabati Stadium and broadcast to a wider audience, the youngsters will have an opportunity to catch the attention of scouts and teams beyond the state.
The 17-match tournament will be played entirely at the Barabati Stadium from September 20 to 29, with an exhibition women’s match also scheduled on the final day.
With six franchises, 17 competitive matches and a pool of young cricketers eager to make their mark, the Odisha T20 League CM Trophy promises to be more than just a domestic T20 competition.
It will be a platform for Odisha’s next generation to dream bigger, perform under pressure and take their first steps towards opportunities at the highest levels of the game.
