Tournament launched to unearth cricket talent in Old Delhi

New Delhi: The 1st Elahi Memorial Old Delhi T20 Cricket Tournament 2026 got underway at the St Stephen's College Ground here on Thursday.

"The purpose of the tournament is to provide a platform to residents of the walled city to showcase their skills, gain confidence and vie for opportunities in T20 leagues like the Delhi Premier League (DPL) and hopefully in Indian Premier League (IPL)," said Abdul Sattar, the tournament secretary who is also a member of the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA).

"There has been a growing interest in Old Delhi but unfortunately the boys lacked platform. I am glad that people have chipped in," added Sattar who is the secretary of Maulana Azad Cricket Club.

The tournament has been sponsored by the Elahi Family, a known business name in the walled city. The teams also have also found sponsors.

The tournament features 24 teams divided into six groups.

The top two teams among the group toppers will move directly into the semifinals while the remaining four will play in two quarterfinals and the two winners will proceed to the semis.

The cash prize for the winning team in Rs 1,11,000 while the runners-up will get Rs 51,000.

The tournament is restricted to players and residents from three legislative assembly constituencies -- Chandni Chowk, Ballimaran and Matia Mahal.

The tournament's final will be played on April 17.

In the opening encounter, Thunderbolts XI defeated Super Kings by 18 runs. Kashif scored an unbeaten 82 off 42 balls (5x4s, 6x6s) while wicketkeeper-batsman Imran Ali made 60 off 26 balls (6x4s, 5x6s).

Super Kings were restricted to 198/7 in 20 overs in response. Tanuj top-scored 89 off 50 balls (10x4s, 3x6s). Mayank Nigam starred for Thunderbolts XI with the ball, taking 4/43. Nigam was adjudged Player of the Match.

In the second match of the day, Apex Cricket Club crushed Asia 11 Club by 82 runs. Apex made 231/5 in the allotted 20 overs with Arbaz Ahmed top-scoring with 82 off 42 balls (10x4s, 3x6s). Faheem Mirza scored 52 off 27 balls (9x4s, 1x6).

Asia 11 Club were bowled out for 149 in 16.5 overs. Eid made 81 off 43 balls (10x4s, 4x6s) for the losers. Mohammed Faid took 3/32 to rattle Asia 11. Faid's all-round show that also saw him score 28 off 15 won him the Player of the Match Award.

Tags : Cricket, T20, Old Delhi, Walled city, St Stephen's