Muscat – The Deccan Eagles clinched the title at the Deccani Premier League (DPL) cricket tournament finals held at the Military Technological College in Muscat, marking a successful conclusion to the eighth edition of the community-led competition organised by the Hyderabadi community in Oman.

The tournament, presented by Salim Mohiuddin, was attended by H.E. Godavarthi Venkata Srinivas, India’s Ambassador to Oman, as chief guest, while Abdullah Al Hilali, a FIFA referee and coach with Oman Football, served as guest of honour. Mansoor Sabri welcomed the dignitaries and expressed gratitude to participants, sponsors and organisers.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Srinivas praised the organisation of the tournament and the quality of cricket displayed during the action-packed finals. He also commended the strong spectator turnout, which included Indian and Omani fans and their families, describing it as a reflection of the unifying role of sports within the community.

The ambassador lauded the efforts of tournament organiser Zaheer and his organising team, including Mirza Zulkhadar Baig, Syed Naimath, Zaki Ahmed, Fasi Uddin, Dr. Atif, Ali, Junaid, Zain and Kabeer, and congratulated the participating teams for taking the league to new heights.

To mark Oman’s 55th National Day celebrations, the Omani national anthem was played at the venue, with greetings and best wishes extended to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq and the people of Oman. The ambassador later met and was introduced to the finalist teams.

In the final match, Deccan Eagles, captained by Dr. Atif Hussain, defeated Deccan Royals, led by Rafeeq. Batting first, Deccan Royals were bowled out for 44 runs in 9.2 overs. Deccan Eagles chased down the target, scoring 46 runs in four overs for the loss of one wicket.

Guest of honour Abdullah Al Hilali praised the high standards of the tournament and assured organisers of his support for future editions.

Mohsin Shareef was named Man of the Series, while Rafeeq and Mohsin Shareef were adjudged Best Batsman and Best Bowler respectively. Sohail Khan briefed attendees on the Deccani Premier League, while Dawood, Masi, Samad, Mohsin, Aleem and Habib presented awards to Man of the Match winners and other standout performers. Amjad of Oman Phone presented gift hampers, and Afzal served as the tournament physiotherapist.

The organising committee extended special thanks to sponsors including Salim Mohiuddin Building Materials, Sohar Aluminium, HST Signs, Dana Egg, Sarooj Water, Takamul Engineering & Consultancy, Badr Al Sama Hospitals, Al Omaniya, Al Kamiyal Dairy Products, Oman Phone, Netseeds and D5 Sports for their support of the tournament.