Khel Masthi 2026 Brings Melbournes Konkani Community Together Through Sport
MELBOURNE, Australia: Karaval Konkans Australia Inc. (KKA) successfully hosted the second edition of its signature Khel Masthi Indoor Cricket Tournament at Casey Stadium in Cranbourne on Saturday, July 25, bringing together nearly 250 players, family members, supporters, volunteers and community members for a day of sport, friendship and cultural connection.
Following the success of the inaugural tournament in 2025, Khel Masthi 2026 has grown into a vibrant community cricket carnival, combining competitive sport with entertainment, family participation and a strong spirit of togetherness.
The tournament began with a prayer and blessing led by Rev. Fr. James Fernandez, Parish Priest of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, Clyde. Fr. James officially opened the tournament by conducting the team toss and participating in the ceremonial first delivery as the inaugural batter. Gokul Manchukonda, Home Loan Specialist at Community Bank Diamond Creek – Bendigo Bank, bowled the opening ball, marking the formal commencement of the tournament.
KKA President Jane D’Souza welcomed the gathering and acknowledged the collective efforts of the organising committee, volunteers, sponsors and participating teams.
“Our commitment remains focused on creating meaningful opportunities for our community to connect through cultural, social and sporting activities,” D’Souza said.
The tournament featured 12 men’s teams and four women’s teams, with players competing throughout the day in a display of cricketing talent, teamwork, competitive spirit and fair play. Enthusiastic families and supporters added to the energetic atmosphere around the courts.
The participating teams were Cranbourne Stars A, Cranbourne Stars B, Cranbourne Stars C, Cranbourne Stars D, Old Monks, Jolly Boyz Thunderz, Daiji Syndicates, Kudla Express, Konkan Titans, Indoor Pili, Coastal Porbu’s A, Coastal Porbu’s B, Bimbli Blasters, Coastal Queens, Coastal Bayamma’s and The Sundari Sixers.
After a thrilling day of competition, Coastal Queens emerged champions in the Women’s Division, with The Sundari Sixers finishing as runners-up. In the Men’s Division, Cranbourne Stars C clinched the championship, while Jolly Boyz Thunderz finished runners-up.
The winners in both divisions received prize money of $1,000, while the runners-up were awarded $500 each. Individual awards were also presented for outstanding performances, including Best Batter, Best Bowler, Best Fielder and Player of the Tournament.
Mayor Presents Awards
The closing ceremony and prize distribution were attended by City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen, who presented the awards and congratulated the players, organisers and volunteers.
In his address, Mayor Koomen highlighted the important role played by multicultural community organisations in promoting social inclusion, physical activity, wellbeing and stronger community connections through sport.
KKA Founder and Chairperson Wilson Kalakar thanked the participating teams and acknowledged the contributions of committee members, volunteers, umpires, sponsors and supporters who helped make the tournament a success.
The tournament was organised and coordinated by Milton Lewis, Prajwal D’Sa and Manoj D’Silva, whose planning, teamwork and commitment ensured the event ran smoothly. Manoj D’Silva also served as the Master of Ceremonies, guiding the programme and keeping participants and spectators informed throughout the day.
KKA Secretary Sandria Rodrigues delivered the formal vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to the dignitaries, sponsors, officials, players, families and volunteers whose support contributed to the success of the tournament.
The event was proudly supported by the City of Casey, with sponsorship from Community Bank Diamond Creek – Bendigo Bank, Tener Wealth, Balloon Bliss with Love, Achieve Beyond Buyers Advocates and RidgeWater Homes.
Special appreciation was extended to DJ Shane, who sponsored the sound and music and helped maintain a lively festival atmosphere throughout the tournament.
Photography coverage was provided by Sarish Paul of Reflektions, who captured the action, excitement and community spirit of the event. KKA also thanked Reuben Tellis for capturing additional highlights and memorable moments.
Khel Masthi 2026 was made possible through the dedication of umpires, team captains, volunteers, sponsors, committee members and families who generously contributed their time and support. All participating teams displayed enthusiasm, sportsmanship and strong community spirit.
Now in its second year, Khel Masthi has firmly established itself as one of KKA’s flagship community events. The strong participation and enthusiastic response reflect the growing strength of Victoria’s Konkani community and its commitment to promoting active lifestyles, cultural identity, friendship and togetherness.
KKA looks forward to welcoming the community back for Khel Masthi 2027 with the same energy, enthusiasm and sporting spirit.