Titanic Clash Between PGML Kings and MCL Superstars in Ramakant Verlekar Champions Trophy 2026 This Saturday

PANAJI: Cricket enthusiasts in Goa are in for a thrilling encounter as the much-anticipated Ramakant Verlekar Champions Trophy 2026 will witness a titanic clash between PGML Kings and MCL Superstars on Saturday, March 28.

The annual marquee fixture brings together two of Goa’s premier cricketing institutions—Panjim Gymkhana and the MCC Cricket Club—each fielding their all-star squads selected from their highly successful members’ leagues. The one-off contest has, over the years, grown into a flagship event hosted by the Sunita Verlekar Foundation, marking a grand culmination of the cricketing season for club members.

Now in its sixth edition, the tournament has consistently delivered edge-of-the-seat action, with each year producing closely fought and nail-biting finishes. PGML Kings, representing Panjim Gymkhana, head into the contest as defending champions, having clinched the title for the past three consecutive years. Meanwhile, MCL Superstars of MCC will be eager to mount a strong challenge and reclaim the trophy.

The match will be played in a T20 day-night format at the MCC Grounds, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Stadium, under ICC T20 regulations, along with a few innovative additions designed to enhance competitiveness and excitement. These include compulsory retirement at 35 runs, unlimited substitutions, and the introduction of a “challenge over.”

The unique selection format ensures that top-performing members from both clubs compete, making it one of the most anticipated fixtures in Goa’s cricketing calendar.

Adding further significance to this year’s event, the Sunita Verlekar Foundation has announced the launch of a ‘Cricketing Scholarship’ aimed at supporting Goa’s most promising young cricketer. Notably, the scholarship will be awarded without distinction between male and female players for the first time.

The event is supported by the MCC Cricket Club and several leading philanthropic industrial groups in Goa, and continues to be solely promoted by the Sunita Verlekar Foundation.