BTR Assam Clinch Thrilling Victory Over Dragon Strikers to Lift
Inaugural BIFA Cup 2025 in Gelephu
By Victor Gurung | Gelephu, Bhutan | April 13, 2025
Cradled in the emerald lap of southern Bhutan, where mist rolls gently over golden paddy fields and the breeze carries the scent of cardamom and camaraderie, lies Gelephu — now fondly known as the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). A town once known for its quiet charm and lush landscapes has now found its heartbeat in the crack of the bat and the roar of the crowd.
The Gelephu International Cricket Ground stands as more than just a sports venue. It is a symbol of Bhutan’s burgeoning passion for cricket and a living testament to the strengthening ties between Bhutan and India, reflecting the shared commitment to fostering friendship and collaboration through sports.
And on this historic day, beneath skies brushed with late-summer gold, the grand finale of the Bhutan-India Friendship Association Cup 2025 gripped fans and dignitaries alike in a thrilling display of sporting passion and diplomacy. Two spirited teams — Dragon Strikers of Bhutan and BTR Assam from India — battled it out for glory in what will be remembered as a landmark day for Bhutanese cricket.
On this momentous day, BTR Assam (India) held their nerve in a nail-biting finish to clinch a narrow 5-run victory over the valiant Dragon Strikers (Bhutan). The final overs were a symphony of tension, grit, and raw emotion — a true test of cricketing spirit. With this win, BTR Assam etched their name in the record books as the first-ever champions of the Bhutan-India Friendship Association Cup, a tournament born not just of sport, but of shared values, cultural bonds, and deep-rooted diplomacy.
Winning the toss and electing to bat first, BTR Assam faced early setbacks, losing two wickets inside the powerplay. However, a stabilizing partnership between Rajdeep Boro and Nayan Basumatary brought some momentum back into the innings. The Dragon Strikers’ bowlers, particularly Pema Dorji, were relentless with their line and length, consistently applying pressure.
Defending 123, BTR Assam needed discipline and early breakthroughs—and they delivered. Despite a spirited innings from Tashi Tshering, the Bhutanese side struggled to build a match-winning partnership in the middle overs. Needing 10 runs off the final over with just one wicket in hand, the Dragon Strikers fell short by 5 runs in what was a heart-stopping finish.
The event was graced by Mr. Shri Ranjan S Shenoy, First Secretary (DCE), Embassy of India to Bhutan, as the Chief Guest. He praised the initiative, highlighting the shared values and the ever-deepening bond between the two countries.
It is my privilege to join you at the prize distribution ceremony of the BIFA Cricket Cup 2025. I congratulate Bhutan-India Friendship Association and Bhutan Cricket for organizing a successful tournament. India and Bhutan share a partnership that spans from healthcare to hydropower, from sports to space, from trade to technology.
The Government of India is proud to support events like this through the India-Bhutan Foundation, as they promote people-to-people ties and youth linkages—at the heart of our friendship.
“India and Bhutan share a friendship that transcends borders and generations. From space to sports, from hydropower to healthcare — the Government of India remains committed to supporting Bhutan’s journey of growth and development. Events like this cricket tournament are not just about the game; they are about bringing our people closer, building bridges through passion, youth, and shared dreams.”
I am pleased to share that Bhutan is constructing a new international-standard cricket stadium in Thimphu, and we look forward to hosting Indian teams there in the future. Events like this bring our peoples closer, and India is committed to expanding sports partnerships with Bhutan.
In a heartfelt closing speech, Mr. Damber S Gurung, CEO of Bhutan Cricket, said:
This tournament is not just about cricket. It is about shared values, respect, and the deep friendship that connects our two nations. To all the players—you’ve played with heart, honor, and humility.
We thank the India-Bhutan Foundation, BIFA, Bhutan Olympic Committee, Dzongkhag and Thromde Administrations, and Gelephu Mindfulness City. Our sincere gratitude to our partners, Bank of Bhutan and Tashi Cell. And to BTR Assam—congratulations! You’ve made history.
Dasho Thinley Wangchuk Dorji, President of the Bhutan Cricket Council Board, couldn’t help but smile with pride as he watched the exciting final match unfold at the Gelephu International Cricket Ground. For him, it was a moment that symbolized all the hard work and passion that’s gone into building cricket in Bhutan. Seeing the sport grow, from the grassroots to this international platform, was incredibly satisfying. Dasho Thinley knows this progress wouldn’t be possible without the ongoing support from the Bhutan Olympic Committee and the Government of India, who have played a key role in helping to develop the sports infrastructure in the country. With this kind of collaboration, Bhutan’s cricketing dreams are starting to take flight on the global stage.
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