The 3rd edition of the Restaurant Cricket League (RCL) concluded in an electrifying finale as Team Uttarakhand Gulthiya emerged victorious, claiming the championship title after defeating Team Uttar Pradesh Kachoris in a thrilling match at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in New Delhi. The event not only showcased intense cricket action but also highlighted RCL’s core mission of promoting social change, particularly in the fight against hunger.
A Nail-Biting Finish
In a gripping final, Uttarakhand Gulthiya triumphed by just two wickets, delivering one of the most exciting finishes in RCL’s history. The match, held before a packed stadium, saw remarkable individual performances and unforgettable moments. Among the esteemed guests present at the event were Shri Rajiv Pratap Rudy, Member of Parliament, and Smt. Smriti Irani, Former Cabinet Minister, Government of India. Both dignitaries lauded the league for its successful combination of sport and social impact, which is at the heart of the RCL initiative.
“Congratulations to Team Uttarakhand Gulthiya for their outstanding performance! This tournament is a celebration of cricket and compassion. RCL and the ‘Hunger Free Bharat’ mission are setting an example for the world, proving that sports can drive real social impact,” said Shri Rajiv Pratap Rudy during the closing ceremony.
A Tournament with a Purpose: Delivering 2.3 Lakh Meals
While the competition was fierce, RCL 2025 was much more than just a sports event. Under the mission “Serving Change, Delivering Impact, and Uniting Communities,” the league successfully continued its “100 Meals on Every 10 Runs” initiative. For every 10 runs scored, 300 meals were pledged, making the final match contribute to the overall delivery of 2.3 lakh meals to underserved communities across India. This initiative, in collaboration with The Adi Bodh Foundation and other food security organizations, is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger by 2030. This contribution to food security highlighted the league’s ongoing commitment to addressing hunger and reducing food waste, ensuring that cricket becomes a catalyst for social change.
A Celebration of Culture and Culinary Diversity
RCL 2025 also showcased India’s rich culinary and cultural heritage. The league featured eight teams, each named after a distinct regional dish, such as the Andhra Pradesh Mirchies, Delhi Daawats, Gujarat Dhoklas, Jammu & Kashmir Kahwas, Maharashtra Modaks, Rajasthan Dal Batis, Uttar Pradesh Kachoris, and the victorious Uttarakhand Gulthiyas. Throughout the tournament, the RCL Taste and Traditions Festival ran alongside the cricket matches, offering fans an immersive experience of India’s diverse regional cuisines, cultural performances, and sustainable food practices. The festival gave a platform to celebrate India’s culinary traditions while promoting sustainability and food security.
A Platform for National Initiatives
Supported by Incredible India and the Ministry of Tourism, RCL 2025 also reinforced the Indian government’s commitment to food security, sustainable practices, and sports development. The tournament aligned with several national initiatives, including:
- Khelo India Programme
- FIT India Movement
- Pradhan Mantri Atmanirbhar Swasth Bharat Yojana
- POSHAN Abhiyaan
- Eat Right India Movement
By weaving together cricket, social responsibility, and sustainable food practices, RCL continues to serve as a pioneering platform in the fight against hunger and food waste.
Backed by Strong Partnerships
The success of RCL 2025 was made possible through the collaboration of numerous partners and organizers, including Novastride Ventures, ITEN Media, and Epic Sports Ventures. The league was supported by notable organizations such as the Incredible India campaign, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Adi Bodh Foundation, along with several other sponsors and partners that helped make the event a success.
Looking Ahead to RCL 2026
With RCL 2025 having made a significant impact both in the sporting world and in society, anticipation for the 2026 edition is already growing. The next season promises to be bigger, bolder, and even more impactful, with more teams, larger audiences, and an even greater focus on making sports a vehicle for social good. As the lights went down at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, one message was clear: The Restaurant Cricket League is not just about cricket—it’s about changing lives, one match at a time. With its unwavering commitment to social change and community support, RCL continues to redefine how sports can contribute to a hunger-free India.
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