Gadchiroli: A few years ago, names such as Bhamragarh Panthers, Gadchiroli Warriors, Mulchera Tigers and Forest Raiders would have rung alarm bells for security forces in Maoist-hit district of Gadchiroli, raising suspicion about their links to subversive activities of Maoist dalams.
In circa 2025, these names are triggering speculation on who would be the maiden champion in the district’s first mega T20 cricket tournament with sports enthusiasts counting every hour to greet cricket legend Ravi Shastri, who is the brand ambassador of the tourney on Wednesday.
The 16-side tournament will see one team from each of its 12 talukas, including remote Bhamragarh and Etapalli apart from forest, revenue and police squads. The organiser is a corporate house, which has built a 10,000-capacity stadium with flood lights for a day-and-night game.
With Maoists facing near decimation and security forces paving way for development, business, economic and entertainment is the buzzword in this backward district. The talented players would be sent to Rajasthan Royals Academy near Wardha for grooming with chances of some making it to IPL in future.
“A T20 tournament in Gadchiroli was unthinkable a couple of years ago. Earlier, rampaging Maoists would set mining vehicles on fire, kill employees and opposed employment. With security forces winning back Gadchiroli, corporate entities can now plan, organize such tournaments as talent hunt options,” said a senior police official.