JEDDAH — The 8th TCF-Jotun Champions Trophy 2016 got off to a colorful start at BMT floodlit ground, near Sitteen Street here recently. After a very colorful and orderly march-past of the 16 participating teams, accompanied by TCF kids, chief guest Tariq A. Al-Maeena, popular Saudi socio-political commentator, declared the tournament open during an impressive inaugural ceremony attended by Jotun Marketing Manager Faisal Kareem, FSN Regional Manager Afsal Babu Adiraja, Bupa Finance Manager Mohammed Hanno and Brand Manager Raaed Orkotteri, Pullman Al-Hamra Hotel Sales Manager Mahmood Arabi, Sadafco represetatives Iqbal Patel and Mohammed Ishak, OICC Western region President K.T.A. Muneer and Gopi Nedungadi. An ardent cricketer Tariq, appreciated and thanked the contribution of expatriates, especially Keralites, in the development of Saudi Arabia. "It was really proud to see Asians playing cricket under one umbrella," said Tariq. He also appreciated the Tellichery Cricket Forum (TCF) for organizing this tournament in a professional way in Jeddah and hoped to see more mega tournaments in the future. Tariq won loud cheers and applause from the cricket fans and players when he wished good luck to the tournament in different languages. TCF President Mohammed Faseesh introduced the captains of the 16 teams, officials and TCF organizing team to guests. EFS KKR team won the Best Team in March-past award, followed by Oman Chips DSK team. The awards were presented by the chief guest. Just before the inaugural match, Tariq hit the ceremonial ball delivered by Faisal Kareem, marking the action on the pitch. Earlier, TCF ex-president Anwar Sadath V.P. welcomed the guests, players and cricket fans. Secretary Shamseer Oliyat proposed a vote of thanks, while Ajmal Nazeer anchored the proceedings. Jotun is the title sponsor of the tournament which is supported by FSN & Al-Hokair Group, Bupa Arabia, Kool Design, Pullman Hotel & Resorts, Arcoma, Saudia, Pepsi, Asas Networks and Geepas. In the opening match, last year's runner-up EFS KKR beat Pepsi Alliance by 57 runs. Jahangir, who scored 42 runs and took one wicket was named the Man of Match. In the second match, Ajva Ford Royals defeated My Own Challengers by 41 runs. The Man of the Match award was won by Sharjil, who remained unbeaten on 53. Defending champion Young Star won the third match by 109 runs over Al-Jazeera Steels. Aamir, who scored 91, was adjudged the Man of the Match. In the last match, former champion Oman Chips DSK beat Jotun Penguins by 65 runs. Samiulla scored 27 runs and was declared the Man of the Match. Best 16 teams in Jeddah are playing in this tournament. Matches are played on the weekends. The quarterfinals are scheduled for March 4 and the semifinals on March 5. The final will be on March 11.
