Karaval Konkans Australia Inc. (KKA) has held the second edition of its Khel Masthi Indoor Cricket Tournament, with hundreds of players, families and supporters gathering at Casey Stadium in Cranbourne for a day of sport and community activities.
The tournament, held on 25 July, attracted nearly 250 participants and attendees, building on the inaugural event held in 2025. Organisers said the tournament was designed to bring together members of the Konkani community through indoor cricket, family participation and social connection.
Proceedings began with a prayer and blessing led by Rev. Fr. James Fernandez, Parish Priest of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Clyde. He officially opened the tournament by conducting the team toss and participating in the ceremonial first delivery, while Gokul Manchukonda, a Home Loan Specialist from Community Bank Diamond Creek, bowled the opening ball.
KKA President Jane D’Souza welcomed participants and thanked the organising committee, volunteers, sponsors and teams for their support.
“Our commitment remains focused on creating meaningful opportunities for our community to connect through cultural, social and sporting activities,” she said.
The competition featured 12 men’s teams and four women’s teams, with matches played throughout the day. Organisers said the tournament placed an emphasis on sportsmanship, teamwork and community participation.
The participating teams included Cranbourne Stars A, B, C and D, Old Monks, Jolly Boyz Thunderz, Daiji Syndicates, Kudla Express, Konkan Titans, Indoor Pili, Coastal Porbu’s A and B, Bimbli Blasters, Coastal Queens, Coastal Bayamma’s and The Sundari Sixers.
Coastal Queens won the women’s division, while The Sundari Sixers finished runners-up. Cranbourne Stars C claimed the men’s title, with Jolly Boyz Thunderz taking the runners-up position.
Winning teams in both divisions received $1,000 in prize money, while runners-up were awarded $500. Individual awards were presented for Best Batter, Best Bowler, Best Fielder and Player of the Tournament.
The closing ceremony was attended by City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen, who presented the awards and congratulated players, organisers and volunteers. He said multicultural community organisations play an important role in encouraging social inclusion, physical activity and community participation through sport.
KKA Founder and Chairperson Wilson Kalakar thanked the participating teams and acknowledged the efforts of committee members, volunteers, umpires, sponsors and supporters who contributed to the event.
The tournament was coordinated by Milton Lewis, Prajwal D’Sa and Manoj D’Silva, with Manoj D’Silva also serving as master of ceremonies. KKA Secretary Sandria Rodrigues delivered the vote of thanks, recognising the contributions of dignitaries, sponsors, officials, players, families and volunteers.
The event received support from the City of Casey and sponsorship from Community Bank Diamond Creek, Tener Wealth, Balloon Bliss with Love, Achieve Beyond Buyers Advocates and RidgeWater Homes. DJ Shane provided sound and music support, while photography coverage was provided by Sarish Paul of Reflektions, with additional photography by Reuben Tellis.
Organisers said the response to the second tournament reflected growing participation within Victoria’s Konkani community and encouraged plans for Khel Masthi to return in 2027.
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