Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 22 December 2025
The South Andaman Forest Division has successfully concluded the inaugural “DFO (SA) Cup 2025” Open Cricket Tournament, a league-cum-knockout event held at the Mini Stadium, Wimberlygunj. The tournament was organised under the aegis of the Works Committee of the South Andaman Forest Division.
What set this tournament apart was its scale and purpose — it was the first time in the history of any Forest Division in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands that a Works Committee organised a cricket championship of this magnitude, complete with broad participation and substantial prize money. The initiative aimed to promote community bonding, sportsmanship, physical fitness, and camaraderie within South Andaman.
A total of 19 teams, including representatives from various Government Departments, Youth Clubs and five Gram Panchayats, competed with enthusiasm.
The grand finale was played on December 20, 2025, where Shifa Strikers defeated CS XI in a thrilling contest to claim the maiden DFO (SA) Cup 2025. The champions walked away with the trophy and cash prize, while CS XI received the runners-up trophy along with prize money.
In addition to team awards, a specially abled batsman was honoured with a trophy and cash prize for scoring a half-century, adding an inspiring highlight to the tournament.
The final match began with an opening session attended by Mr. Ashwin J. Parihar, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer (South Andaman). Shifa Strikers won the toss and elected to bat. The closing ceremony was graced by Dr. A. Anil Kumar, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forests (Territorial), Department of Environment & Forests, A&N Islands, who attended as the Chief Guest.
Organisers said the success of the maiden tournament reflects the Forest Division’s growing focus on employee welfare and wider community engagement.
