
KIIT University Women’s Cricket Team Scripts History, Storms into Semi-Finals of National University Inter-Zone Championship.
In a historic milestone for Odisha, the KIIT University Women’s Cricket Team has etched their name into the annals of university sports by becoming the first-ever university from the state to qualify for the semi-final of the prestigious National University Inter-Zone Cricket (Women) Championship 2024-25. This remarkable achievement is not just a moment of pride for KIIT but a defining breakthrough for the entire sports landscape of Odisha.
The team secured their semi-final berth with a commanding 37-run victory over Bengaluru City University, showcasing skill, grit, and unmatched teamwork. The championship is being held at the state-of-the-art KIIT International Cricket Stadium, from April 2 to April 11, and is organized by KIIT Deemed to be University in collaboration with the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) under the aegis of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), New Delhi. The tournament brings together 16 elite university teams from across India, serving as a national platform for emerging women cricketers.
In the tournament’s 1st semi-final, MDU Rohtak University defeated University of Madras by 6 wickets, securing a place in the final. All eyes are now on the highly anticipated 2nd semi-final match, where KIIT University will face off against the University of Calicut for a spot in the championship clash.
Prof. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT, KISS, and KIMS, extended heartfelt congratulations to the team, lauding their historic accomplishment and reaffirming the university’s commitment to nurturing athletic talent through world-class infrastructure and unwavering institutional support. “KIIT stands tall today, not only as an academic leader but also as a cradle of sporting excellence,” Prof. Samanta remarked.
In addition, Shri. Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, President of the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA), and Shri. Sanjay Behera, Secretary of OCA, congratulated the KIIT team on this historic accomplishment. They praised the team’s dedication, determination, and exceptional skills, expressing confidence in their continued success in the championship.
The KIIT University Women’s Cricket Team expressed heartfelt gratitude to Prof. Samanta for his unwavering support, visionary leadership, and continuous encouragement. His relentless efforts to empower young athletes through world-class infrastructure and facilities have been a significant source of motivation.
Under his inspiring guidance, KIIT has become a recognized hub of sporting excellence, nurturing young talent and instilling confidence in aspiring sportswomen. The team also appreciated the exceptional hospitality, accommodation, and top-notch cricketing facilities provided during the tournament.
With high spirits and a strong desire to make their university and state proud, the KIIT Women’s Cricket Team now looks ahead to the Semi Final, determined to deliver their best and make a lasting impact on the national stage.