Category Archives: Press Releases
Posted on May 18, 2026
How VPCI is opening doors for veterans and open-category cricketers across India and the UAE — and why the journey is just beginning Who We Are Veterans Pro Cricket International — VPCI — exists for one reason: to give cricketers more cricket. Founded to serve both the open category and veterans’ cricket communities, VPCI is one of the largest backers of playing talent across India and the UAE. We believe that a cricketer’s journey should not end when their career reaches a certain age or level — it should evolve, grow, and find new stages to shine on. That conviction sits at the heart of everything we do. In India, we work in close partnership with Veterans Cricket India (VCI) — the country’s principal body for Over 40s cricket — as their proud sponsor and programmatic partner. Together, we are building a structured, aspirational, and genuinely exciting competitive pathway for veteran cricketers at the national and international level. In the UAE, VPCI fields one of the most exciting veterans sides in the region: the Macwise Titans, a Division A team competing in UAE cricket with genuine ambition and a strong culture of performance. The Titans represent what VPCI stands for — competitive cricket, serious talent, and a team that plays to win. VPCI is not just a sponsor. We are builders — of programmes, of players, and of a future where veterans cricket is taken as seriously as it deserves to be. What We Do: Two Countries, One Vision India — Partnering with VCI Over 40s Our partnership with Veterans Cricket India covers the full arc of a player’s competitive journey: from national selection camps to international tours to World Cup representation. In January 2026, alongside VCI, we supported the first-ever national selection tournament for India Over 40s — a landmark event at Lonavala’s SPJ Cricket Ground that brought close to 88 players together from six zones across the country. That event was historic. It was also just the beginning. From those 88 players, a squad of 30 has been identified and is now being actively prepared for international competition. The pipeline is real, the programme is structured, and the opportunities are growing. UAE — The Macwise Titans In the UAE, VPCI runs the Macwise Titans — a Division A veterans cricket club competing at the highest domestic level available to the veterans format in the Emirates. The Titans are a genuine competitive unit, and participation in the club provides a pathway for UAE-based veterans cricketers to play structured, high-quality cricket in one of the world’s great cricket destinations. The Titans also serve as a talent pool and proving ground for VPCI’s broader international programme — players who perform well in UAE cricket have every opportunity to be considered for national-level veterans representation. How We Structure the Year: Format by Cycle (Veterans Over 40s) One of the things that makes the VPCI-VCI programme distinctive is how deliberately we plan the competitive calendar for our Veterans Over 40s players. We operate on a two-year cycle, shaped by the international veterans’ cricket calendar: Year Type Primary Format What It Means for Players World Cup Year (e.g. 2026) 45-Over Format International tours, bilateral series, and World Cup preparation matches. India faces leading nations including England, Wales, and others in the lead-up to the IMC Over 40s World Cup. Non-World Cup Year T20 Format VPCI-organised T20 tournaments across India and UAE. Multiple events, broad participation, open to veterans and open category players. High-frequency cricket designed for maximum outreach. This structure means there is always something to play for — and always a reason to stay match-fit, stay sharp, and stay connected to the game. Whether it’s a T20 tournament close to home or a 45-over fixture against England on an international tour, the VPCI-VCI calendar is designed to give players a full and meaningful competitive year. World Cup year or not — there is always a game worth playing for under the VPCI banner. Right Now: India Over 40s on Tour in England May and June 2026 represent a milestone for this programme. India Over 40s — supported and part-sponsored by VPCI — are currently on the India 40s Veterans Cricket Tour UK Edition 2026, based out of Slough, London, competing in a series of 45-over pink ball fixtures against some of the finest veterans and county-level opposition in England. The squad, captained by Anand Nair, is playing across six fixtures between 27th May and 7th June 2026. Facing England Over 40s and Wales Over 40s among others, this tour is the first major international exposure for many of these players — and a crucial step in our preparation for what comes next. Date Venue Opposition Wed, 27 May 2026 Swindon Cricket Ground England Over 40s Thu, 28 May 2026 High Wycombe Cricket Ground Local County XI Sun, 31 May 2026 Dunstable Town Cricket Ground Local Veterans XI Tue, 2 Jun 2026 Leamington Spa Local Veterans XI Thu, 4 Jun 2026 Hammerwich Cricket Ground Local Club XI Sun, 7 Jun 2026 Worcestershire Cricket Ground Wales Over 40s These are not friendly kickabouts. These are competitive international fixtures played in proper English conditions, against sides that take this format seriously. Every game is preparation. Every game matters. The Destination: IMC Over 40s World Cup, Guyana 2026 IMC Over 40s World Cup 2026 — Guyana, West Indies | October 2026 Organised by CWIMA • 16 nations competing • India qualified and preparing • The biggest stage in veterans cricket The England tour feeds directly into our ultimate objective for 2026: the IMC Over 40s World Cup in Guyana, West Indies, in October — organised by CWIMA (Cricket West Indies Masters Association). India will compete against 16 nations for the world title, at some of the most storied cricket venues in the Caribbean. VPCI is proud to support India’s campaign. The squad that tours England this month will form the core of the side that flies to Guyana in October. The preparation is deliberate,
Posted on November 25, 2025
Source : First India
Posted on September 25, 2025
Source : Gulf News
Posted on September 24, 2025
Source : Middle East News 247
Posted on July 10, 2025
The 49th edition of the Bukhatir League 2025, held from 9th June to 4th July at the iconic Sharjah Cricket Stadium, proved once again why it remains one of the most respected and hotly contested cricketing tournaments in the UAE. Organized by the Sharjah Cricket Association, the tournament gathered the nation’s top corporate and club teams, offering a true test of skill, strategy, and resilience in the 50-over format. Among the standout teams was the Macwise Titans (UAE)—a well-balanced side that fused youthful dynamism with seasoned experience. Their campaign in the Bukhatir League 2025 was a testament to their growing stature in UAE’s competitive cricketing ecosystem. From spirited performances to gritty comebacks, the Titans’ journey this season earned them not just results, but admiration from peers and fans alike. The Bukhatir League – A Legacy of Excellence Launched nearly five decades ago, the Bukhatir League holds a revered place in the annals of UAE cricket. Over the years, it has become the heartbeat of the region’s one-day cricket calendar, nurturing elite cricketing talent and serving as a bridge for players looking to make the leap to international or franchise cricket. Known for its intensity, discipline, and quality cricket, the tournament continues to inspire generations. In its 49th edition, the league upheld its legacy with competitive matchups, nail-biting finishes, and remarkable individual feats. For the Macwise Titans, it was the ideal platform to showcase their cricketing philosophy—founded on teamwork, sportsmanship, and consistency. Macwise Titans: A Team Built on Balance The Macwise Titans entered the tournament with a roster that blended raw potential and experienced hands. The squad featured emerging stars eager to prove their mettle and senior players guiding the team with calm leadership and tactical clarity. Squad List Aaryan Madani Mene Sailles Jaishankar Adithya Shetty Punya Bhatia Sanchit Sharma Angad Nehru Rahul Bhatia Saneen Latheef Aryansh Sharma Raunak Vaswani Syed Makhdoom George Rishabh Vaswani Vaibhav Vaswani Ibrar Butt Sahil Hariani Vriitya Aravind This impressive lineup demonstrated their depth across all departments. While the batting unit focused on building strong foundations and aggressive finishes, the bowlers delivered with disciplined spells, breakthroughs at crucial junctures, and tight death overs. The fielding, too, reflected modern athleticism with sharp catches and swift ground coverage. Tournament Journey: Match-by-Match Performance The Macwise Titans faced stiff competition throughout the tournament. Each game presented its own set of challenges, but the Titans met them head-on with spirit and strategy. Match 1 – vs CSS Group The Titans opened their campaign against the well-drilled CSS Group. A competitive match saw both sides trading blows, with the Titans showcasing discipline in their bowling and a composed batting response. Match 2 – vs UAE Kings XI A highly anticipated fixture, the encounter with UAE Kings XI tested the Titans’ depth. The middle-order resilience stood out, and the bowlers did well to contain the opposition’s chase. Match 3 – vs GHK Properties A dominant display saw the Titans clicking in all departments. From an explosive opening partnership to sharp wicket-taking spells, this match was a statement performance. Match 4 – vs Colatta Chocolates The final group stage game had high stakes. The Titans showed grit under pressure, with key contributions from both bat and ball ensuring a strong finish to their league campaign. A Team on the Rise Throughout the Bukhatir League 2025, the Macwise Titans demonstrated that they are more than just a participating team—they are future title contenders. Their cohesion, clarity in roles, and on-field camaraderie stood out in every match. While they may not have walked away with the trophy this year, their performances earned the respect of the cricketing community and highlighted their growing influence on the UAE cricket circuit. The team’s ability to fight back from tough situations, maintain discipline under pressure, and support each other through thick and thin speaks volumes about their internal culture. Their journey in this tournament has not only strengthened their brand but also inspired young cricketers watching from the stands or screens. Looking Ahead With the Bukhatir League 2025 now in the books, the Macwise Titans are already setting their sights on the future. The coaching and support staff are focused on building on this momentum through off-season training, match simulations, and preparation for upcoming domestic and regional tournaments. The players have taken away valuable lessons from this campaign—lessons that will shape their strategies, boost their confidence, and refine their game. The Titans are not just aiming to compete; they are working toward domination in future editions of elite cricket leagues across the Gulf. In a region blessed with cricketing enthusiasm, the Macwise Titans are fast becoming flag-bearers of professionalism, youth development, and spirited cricket. The Bukhatir League 2025 may have ended, but for the Titans, a bigger journey has just begun.
Posted on June 18, 2025
The recently concluded VPCI Over 40s T20 Corporate Cricket League was more than just a tournament—it was a vibrant celebration of experience, skill, and undying passion for cricket. This prestigious event brought together eight powerhouse veteran teams from across India, proving once again that age is just a number when it comes to competing at the highest level. Tournament Dates: 10th–13th April 2025 Venue: Just Cricket Academy, Bangalore LIVE Streamed: Exclusively on YouTube Participating Teams Almond Hoody Cricket Club Macwise Spartans Vins Cricket Club Storm Slammers Bangalore Slam Cricket Club Vananam Blasters TES Kerala Veterans Delhi Knights Each team displayed exceptional grit, sportsmanship, and fierce competitive spirit over the course of four thrilling days. Championship Highlights Semi-Final Thriller: A nerve-wracking thriller where TES Kerala edged out Macwise, sending ripples through the tournament. Bangalore Slams won their semi-final by a razor-thin margin of 2 runs, showcasing incredible composure in the final overs. Final Match Showdown: TES Kerala Veterans vs Bangalore Slam Cricket Club TES Kerala emerged as the undisputed Champions, defeating Bangalore Slams convincingly by 8 wickets. Kerala Veterans Bangalore Slams Incredible Prizes Winners (TES Kerala Veterans): ₹2,00,000 Runners-up (Bangalore Slams): ₹1,00,000 But the glory didn’t end with trophies and cash! UK Tour Dreams Realized The Top 14 Players from across the league were handpicked for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent the VPCI Over 40s team on an exclusive UK Cricket Tour. This prestigious selection serves as both recognition and reward for the immense talent showcased on the field. Moments to Remember From explosive sixes to diving catches, emotional victories to near-upsets, and the camaraderie among legends—this tournament had it all. Fans across the world tuned in via YouTube to witness the action unfold live, making it a digital success as well. VPCI Over 40s T20: More Than Just a Game This tournament was a testament to the fact that cricket is a lifelong passion. It united veterans, built connections, and created memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you were on the ground cheering your team or watching from across the globe, the energy was infectious! Stay Tuned! With the roaring success of the VPCI Over 40s T20 Corporate Cricket League, more exciting veteran tournaments are on the horizon. Stay connected with us for upcoming fixtures, tour updates, and veteran cricket news.
Posted on April 9, 2025
Veterans Pro Cricket International (VPCI) is proud to announce its official affiliation with the Veterans Cricket Association of India (VCI), which is now a Registered Member Association under the VPCI umbrella. Key Synergies and Benefits of the Affiliation Anand Nair, Managing Director of VPCI, shared his excitement, stating: “This partnership with VCI strengthens the very foundation of veterans’ cricket in India and gives us the momentum to take Indian veteran talent onto the global stage with purpose and pride.” We look forward to working closely with the leadership of VCI to promote the spirit of competitive cricket among veteran athletes and build a sustainable and respected veterans’ cricketing ecosystem. Together, we are Stronger, United, and Global.
Posted on March 19, 2025
Indore, 24th February 2025 – The highly anticipated VPCI Over 40’s Central Zone Tournament, held on 14th, 15th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, and 23rd February 2025, concluded successfully in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. This thrilling tournament brought together cricket veterans from across the central region, showcasing exceptional skill, sportsmanship, and competitive spirit. The tournament celebrated the passion for cricket among seasoned players and witnessed intense matches with outstanding performances from the participating teams. The tournament featured some of the best over-40 teams from the Central Zone, each demonstrating their experience and expertise on the field. The event received tremendous support from cricket enthusiasts and the local community, making it a grand success. Bangalore Slams emerged as the tournament champions after an exciting final match against Macwise Spartans, displaying remarkable teamwork and strategy. The tournament also featured other competitive teams, including Indore Challengers, Royal RNTU Lions Bhopal, TES Kerala Veterans, Lighting Stricker, Vananam Chargers Bengaluru, and Shri Krishna Club, all contributing to the high-energy competition. Vananam Chargers Bengaluru Lighting Stricker TES Kerala Veterans Royal RNTU Lions Bhopal Indore Challengers This tournament also featured some legends like Ex Indian Cricketer Mr J P Yadav playing. The level displayed by many A division players were next to none. Top Performers & Awards Bangalore Slams Runner-up: Macwise Spartans Other Participating Teams: Indore Challengers, Royal RNTU Lions Bhopal, TES Kerala Veterans, Lighting Stricker, Vananam Chargers Bengaluru, Shri Krishna Club Best Batsman: Amit Pal ( Macwise Spartans). Best Bowler: Amit Pal ( Macwise Spartans). Man of the Tournament: Amit Pal (Macwise Spartans). Speaking at the closing ceremony, the organizers expressed their gratitude to all the teams, sponsors, and spectators for their unwavering support. “This tournament is a testament to the love for cricket among veteran players. Consecutively we have conducted matches in pristine grounds with superb facilities and infrastructure. The competition and camaraderie displayed here are truly inspiring, and we look forward to continuing this tournament in the coming years,” said Mr Anand Nair. This platform is for the Veterans to grow in a competitive space, where good players get to exhibit talent and rewarded. The exemplary example was how the organization board decided to reward the exceptional players with kits and bats for the growth of the game so that they have access to better infrastructure to play games. The tournament was made possible with the generous support of sponsors, officials, and cricket enthusiasts who ensured a smooth and memorable experience. The organizing committee extended special thanks to the officials, ground staff, and volunteers for their contributions to the tournament’s success. For further details and updates, stay tuned for upcoming announcements regarding future tournaments. Best Regards,Anand Nair DirectorVeterans Pro Cricket InternationalEmail: info@veteransprocricket.com
Posted on March 18, 2025
Pollachi, 27th January 2025 – The highly anticipated VPCI Over 40’s South Zone Tournament, held from 24th to 26th January 2025, concluded successfully in Pollachi, bringing together cricket veterans from across the region for an exciting display of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and competitive spirit. The tournament, organized to celebrate the passion for cricket among seasoned players, witnessed intense matches and remarkable performances from participating teams. The tournament featured some of the best over-40 teams from the South Zone, each showcasing their skills and experience on the field. The event was met with enthusiastic support from cricket fans and the local community, making it a grand success. Bangalore Slams (Bengaluru) emerged as the tournament champions after a thrilling final match against Shaivik Blasters, displaying exceptional teamwork and strategy. Kerala Veterans (Kerala) secured third place, while Hyderabad Hawks (Hyderabad) finished in fourth place. Notable performances included Bharath Kumar V’s outstanding batting display and remarkable bowling performance, earning him multiple accolades. Bangalore Slams – Champions Shaivik Blasters – Runners Up Top Performers & Awards Winner: Bangalore Slams Runner-up: Shaivik Blasters Third Place: Kerala Veterans Fourth Place: Hyderabad Hawks Best Batsman: Bharath Kumar V (Shaivik Blasters) Best Bowler: Bharath Kumar V (Shaivik Blasters) Man of the Tournament: Bharath Kumar V (Shaivik Blasters) Speaking at the closing ceremony, Mr. Anand Nair, Director of Veterans Pro Cricket International, expressed gratitude to all the teams, sponsors, and spectators for their unwavering support. “This tournament is a testament to the enduring love for cricket among veterans. The level of competition and sportsmanship displayed here is truly inspiring, and we look forward to making this an annual event,” Mr. Anand Nair said. The event was made possible with the support of various sponsors and cricket enthusiasts who ensured a seamless and memorable tournament experience. The organizing committee extended special thanks to the officials, ground staff, and volunteers whose efforts contributed to the smooth execution of the matches. With the success of this edition, the VPCI Over 40’s South Zone Tournament is set to become a key fixture in the cricket calendar for veteran players. The tournament not only provided a competitive platform but also reinforced the spirit of sportsmanship and lifelong passion for the game. Best Regards, Anand NairDirectorVeterans Pro Cricket InternationalEmail: info@veteransprocricket.com
