President’s Statement on the conclusion of 2024-25 SICA Domestic Season

As the curtain falls on the SICA Domestic Season 2024-25, we pause not only to celebrate accomplishments, but to reflect on the extraordinary journey that has brought us here.

This season has been a resounding testament to the passion, resilience and collective spirit of SICA. We take immense pride in having successfully organised a robust calendar of tournaments, which served as vibrant platforms for nurturing local talent and strengthening the cricketing fabric of our state:

1.           Vinod Pradhan Trophy

2.           SICA A Division Men’s Club Tournament

3.           SICA B Division Men’s Club Tournament

4.           SICA C Division Men’s Club Tournament

5.           SICA D Division Men’s Club Tournament

6.           SICA Women’s Club Tournament

7.           Murray Cup (State-level U-16 Boys Inter-School Tournament)

8.           Kalu Ram Thirani Cup (State-level U-19 Girls Inter-School Tournament)

9.           Snowlion T20 League

The Sikkim Cricket Association also participated in the inaugural Under-14 Boys and U-15 Girls tournament in Guwahati which was participated by eight NE States. 

Beyond the boundaries of competitive fixtures, SICA also took meaningful strides in bridging sport with social impact. We hosted exhibition matches featuring CM XI, Chief Secretary XI, and SICA XI – a powerful symbol of governance harmonizing with wellness through sport.

In parallel, charity matches conducted in partnership with various government departments helped raise vital support for those in need, underscoring our belief that the spirit of cricket extends far beyond the pitch.

Among the defining highlights of this season were two monumental events:

The inauguration of state-of-the-art floodlights, which marked a transformative leap forward in Sikkim’s cricketing infrastructure.

This milestone was made possible through the unwavering support and visionary leadership of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), whose belief in the power of sports continues to light the path for countless youth across the state.

We were honoured by the gracious presence of the Chief Justice, Hon’ble High Court of Sikkim Shri Biswanath Somadder, Hon’ble Speaker, Hon’ble Deputy Speaker, Hon’ble Ministers, Hon’ble MLAs, Cabinet Secretary Shri V. B. Pathak, Chief Secretary Shri Ravindra Telang, DGP Shri Akshay Sachdeva, all Secretaries and the District Collectors, who stood by SICA despite their demanding responsibilities – a gesture we hold in deep esteem.

The hosting of the 4th NECDC Achievers’ Nite, which brought national spotlight to Sikkim and reaffirmed our growing role in shaping the cricketing narrative of the North-East.

SICA has never confined itself to being a mere sporting body – it has always stood as a movement. A movement rooted in inclusivity, community, and vision. This ethos resonated deeply through our celebration of the 38th Foundation Day at Sribadam, Soreng District, where we recommitted ourselves to grassroots development by reaching even the most remote corners of our state.

This has also been a season of gratitude.

We offer our heartfelt thanks to:

•             The Hon’ble Governor of Sikkim, Shri Om Prakash Mathur

•             The Hon’ble Chief Justice, Shri Biswanath Somadder

•             All Hon’ble MLAs, especially Shri Sanjit Kharel and Shri Erung Tenzing Lepcha, whose constant involvement and guidance have been instrumental in propelling SICA forward.

•             Shri Phurba Wangdi Bhutia, Managing Director, State Bank of Sikkim, who has extended not only financial support but emotional solidarity—standing as one of SICA’s most committed advocates.

•             Commandant SAP, Smt. Linda Palmo Bhutia, for her consistent backing

•             SDM Rangpo and her team, SDPO and police personnel, Power Department of Rangpo, and the Principals of schools in and around Mining, for their generous cooperation

•             During our 38th Foundation Day celebrations in Sribadam, Soreng District, it was the enthusiastic participation of schools in and around the region that gave the event its true heartbeat. Their presence added depth and purpose to our celebration of grassroots cricket.

•             Our strategic partners – TCM Sports, State Bank of Sikkim, and all co-sponsors and associate sponsors – for believing in our mission

•             The press and media for capturing our journey and carrying the story of SICA to the wider public

And most importantly, to our executive committee members, district cricket bodies, management teams, and support staff – the silent hands that shape every tournament, every win, every milestone. Your dedication may be quiet, but its impact echoes loudly.

As we stand at the close of this vibrant season, our hearts brim with pride, gratitude, and renewed resolve. With the momentum of the past year and the vision of a brighter tomorrow, we now set our gaze upon the seasons ahead – ready to scale new heights, embrace new challenges, and script new legacies.

Here’s to the game we love, the spirit that binds us, and the future that awaits.

In service of the game always,

With pride and purpose,

Shri Tika Subba

President

Sikkim Cricket Association