Press Release

Final of the Inaugural Bhutan-India Friendship Association Cup 2025

Gelephu International Cricket Ground, April 12, 2025

Gelephu is alive with anticipation as the grand finale of the Bhutan-India Friendship Association Cup 2025 approaches. Cricket fans on both sides of the border are bracing for what promises to be a spectacular climax to this historic and fiercely competitive tournament.

A press conference was held earlier this evening at the Gelephu International Cricket Ground, where team captains Mikyo Dorji of Dragon Strikers (Bhutan) and Vikram Singh Daimari of BTR Assam (India) spoke to the media ahead of tomorrow’s finale.

Sponsored by the India-Bhutan Foundation and organised by the Bhutan Cricket Council Board in partnership with the Bhutan-India Friendship Association, the tournament has brought together emerging talents and passionate cricket from both nations, delivering high-quality matches and unforgettable moments.

Bhutan’s captain Mikyo Dorji reflected on his team’s journey:

“We are here to play positive and fearless cricket. Sometimes, things might not go our way, but what matters is how we approach the game—with the right mindset. It’s a proud moment to represent Bhutan in the final of this historic tournament.”

He also acknowledged the challenge that lies ahead:

“We’re not underestimating BTR Assam. They defeated the tournament favourites, SKD All Stars, and have shown real determination. Cricket is part of the Indian DNA, but our team is ready. We’ve got the right mix of experience and young talent that’s been shining throughout.”

For Vikram Singh Daimari and his BTR Assam side, the road to the final has been one of learning and improvement. Reflecting on their earlier group-stage loss to the Dragon Strikers, Vikram said:

That match was a turning point for us. We’ve improved with every game and are now in a good space mentally and physically. Facing the Dragon Strikers again in the final is something we’re looking forward to—it’s going to be a proper contest.”

He also praised Bhutan’s rising cricket culture:

“It’s great to see how cricket is evolving in Bhutan. The quality of cricket here has been competitive and full of heart. That’s what makes this tournament so special.”

When asked about handling the pressure of a final, Mikyo kept it simple and calm:

Pressure is only pressure if you let it be. Stay grounded, focus on the process, and the results will follow.

Final Showdown of the First-Ever Bhutan-India Friendship Association Cup 2025

Participating Teams

  • Dragon Strikers
  • SKD All Stars
  • BTR Assam
  • Thunder Cricket Academy

Match Results – Road to the Final

  • Dragon Strikers def. BTR Assam by 27 runs
  • SKD All Stars def. Thunder Cricket Academy by 5 wickets
  • BTR Assam def. SKD All Stars by 9 wickets
  • Dragon Strikers def. Thunder Cricket Academy by 3 wickets
  • Dragon Strikers vs SKD All Stars – Abandoned due to rain (1 point each)
  • BTR Assam vs Thunder Cricket Academy – Abandoned due to rain (1 point each)

Semi-Finals

  • Dragon Strikers def. Thunder Cricket Academy by 29 runs
  • BTR Assam def. SKD All Stars by 21 runs

Tournament Highlights

  • Leading Run Scorer: Bishwajith Das (BTR Assam) – 127 runs in 3 matches
  • Leading Wicket Taker: Tenzin Wangchuk (Dragon Strikers) – 8 wickets in 4 matches
  • Most Valuable Player: Bishwajith Das (BTR Assam) – 407 points in 3 matches

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