The Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA) and the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF) successfully co-hosted the final of the National Cricket Championship (NCC) tournament, culminating in a thrilling victory for Team Pakhtunkhwa.
This year’s final, held at the scenic NOFA Resorts in Riyadh on November 17th, was a celebration of cricketing excellence, with Team Pakhtunkhwa emerging victorious with 181 runs, defeating Team Patriots by 5 runs in a closely contested match.
The event, now a highlight of the cricketing calendar in its second year, attracted fans and sports enthusiasts from around the world.
Teams that had demonstrated exceptional skills, determination, and teamwork throughout the season came together for this prestigious event, which has become synonymous with the spirit of cricket and its diverse community representation within the Kingdom. This followed last year’s success, where over 8,000 players participated across 412 teams from 11 cities of the Kingdom.
The SFA, as a co-owner of this project, honoured Team Pakhtunkhwa, the champions, underlining their dedication to fostering sports and promoting a health-centric lifestyle in Saudi Arabia.
HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud, President of the Sports for All Federation, commented: “Cricket serves as a significant platform for connecting different communities, emphasizing unity and camaraderie. The growth of this sport within the Kingdom, especially its positive influence on the expatriate community, underscores our strategic direction. The final was not just a showcase of sporting excellence but also a testament to our commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.”
Shaima Saleh Al-Husseini, Managing Director of the Saudi Sports For All Federation, said: “Each year, the NCC and Softball tournaments see an increase in participation and enthusiasm. This year is no exception. Our involvement in co-hosting the final is a clear reflection of our dedication to promoting physical activity, strengthening community bonds, and enhancing Saudi Arabia’s position as a key player in the global sports arena.”
Aligning with Saudi Vision 2030, the NCC and Softball tournaments highlighted the nation’s dedication to incorporating sports as a catalyst for societal progress, illustrating that sports are more than just recreation but are instruments for fostering community unity, health promotion, and cultural diversity celebration.
The global attention this event received signified Saudi Arabia’s emergence as an international sports hub. The collaboration between the SFA and SACF served as a model for future partnerships, enhancing the national sports ecosystem.
A crucial aspect of this event’s success is its ability to bridge cultures. With cricket being an integral part of the cultural fabric for many expatriates in Saudi Arabia, hosting such high-profile tournaments showcases the Kingdom’s appreciation and understanding of the diverse communities that call it home.
