Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, May 19: In a unique and exciting event, over 720 auto drivers gathered in Mangaluru for the city’s first-ever Auto Drivers Cricket Tournament. This grand cricket event, held across four prestigious grounds in the city, was organised by Kudla Utsav and the Rickshaw Drivers’ Association of Mangaluru.
The matches were played simultaneously on multiple grounds, drawing large crowds and creating a festive atmosphere.
The tournament culminated in a spectacular closing ceremony and prize distribution event at Nehru Maidan, where the winning teams were celebrated.
The Kudla Cheetahs emerged as the winners in the Nehru Maidan match, while the Kudla Dragons took the runner-up spot.
In the match at Emmekere Maidan, Kudla Cheetahs were again the winners, and Kudla Eagles were the runners-up. In Paduva Maidan, Kudla Lions claimed the top spot, with Kudla Tigers finishing as the runner-up, while in Kadri Maidan, Kudla Bulls won and Kudla Phoenix finished as the runners-up.
Adding to the excitement, the event also featured a fashion show by Vens Modeling Academy and a dance performance by the Sizzling Guys Dance crew.
The closing ceremony was graced by several notable figures, including renowned former Indian cricketer and wicket-keeper Syed Kirmani, Kudla Utsav organiser Anand Lobo, MLC Ivan D'Souza, Daijiworld Media founder and managing director Walter Nandalike, ENPOY Group’s Javed, NRI entrepreneur Abdul Razak, former minister Ramanath Rai, and Legislative Assembly Speaker U T Khader, among others.
The event successfully brought together the city’s auto drivers, not just for cricket, but to foster camaraderie and celebrate their contribution to the city's daily transport services.