by Nevelle Coutinho
NASHIK-MAHARASHTRA, NOVEMBER 23, 2013: It was a day gleaming with sunshine, the best time to pool together to play India's one of the most loved games, Cricket. The Annual Oratory Cricket Tournament organized by the brothers of Divyadaan, Salesian Institute of Philosophy in collaboration with the brothers of Salesian Training Institute was held at Don Bosco Marg, College Road, Nashik for the past pupils of the Oratory.
The Oratory is meant for less financially fortunate boys whom the brothers play with and visit every Sunday apart from their philosophy studies. When these boys grow up, they get too busy searching jobs or pursuing higher studies or else working in the public or private sectors. The brothers keep in touch with them by organizing this Cricket Tournament wherein they come together to share moments of joy and togetherness. Many of them often participate in the tournament just to express their gratitude for receiving guidance and inspiration in their early phases of life .The brothers here not only play games but also instill in them virtues needed for their betterment and aim at making them good citizens.
The tournament comprised of 11 teams from different localities of Nashik. The tournament began with a traditional prayer service showing a sense of unity inspite of religious diversity. After which the inaugural talk was given by Fr. Brian Bandya OFM Cap, who spoke on the sportsmanship and all that is needed is to enjoy the game alluding to one of the best cricketer Sachin Tendulkar for whom "cricket is breath." After this the rules and regulations were explained and the tournament took off at 9.15 a.m.
After the fierce battles among the 11 teams, the teams Jagtapwadi II and Siddharta Hotel reached the finals. The match was challenging and unpredictable but finally team Jagtapwadi II proved themselves invincible in the finals. The winning teams received jerseys and a trophy while the runners up received medals. The best bowler was awarded to Pravin from the team Jagtapwadi and the best batsmen to Sagar from the team Godavari II.
After the prize distribution the chief guest Fr.Kishore - Nashik Diocesan Youth Director, a lover of youth and a man of conviction, enlightened the youth with his inspirational speech and motivating message on living life fully and striving for excellence in life.
This event was a success only because of the hard work put in by the brothers of Divyadaan in planning, organizing and preparing the pitch for the tournament. All the youngsters went back with happy memories to cherish.