Rajasthan Royals and NEOM Celebrate Cricket Program Success

By Gurlal Singh

Cricket Player who is writing about cricket now.

Posted: December 17, 2024
Last updated: February 12, 2025

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The second edition of the cricket program, a collaborative effort by NEOM and Rajasthan Royals, concluded successfully with substantial growth and engagement. There was an 85 percent increase in participation, highlighting the program’s expanding influence in promoting cricket and sports culture among NEOM employees and contractors.

The tournament, which featured a 10-over per side format, saw enthusiastic participation from 84 teams representing over 150 companies. In total, 146 matches were held, culminating in an impressive event that drew significant attention. The tournament’s final took place in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, on December 13, 2024, drawing a crowd of 2,000 spectators.

In the men’s final, the Tabuk Tigers emerged victorious against NESMA Fighters. The event also showcased an exhibition match between two women’s teams, marking a milestone in NEOM’s initiatives to promote women’s cricket.

The program is part of a broader multi-year partnership between NEOM and Rajasthan Royals, aimed at fostering inclusion and encouraging widespread participation in cricket. Prominent figures such as Rahul Dravid, the head coach of Rajasthan Royals, and Kumar Sangakkara, the director of cricket, were in attendance, adding prestige to the event. Their insights were valuable in emphasizing the significance of the collaboration in aligning with sports development goals.

HRH Prince Saud bin Mishal Al Saud also expressed his support, highlighting the partnership’s alignment with the Kingdom’s sports development initiatives. Manoj Badale, the lead owner of Rajasthan Royals, noted the partnership’s focus on inclusivity, aiming to create a broad-based cricket culture. Jan Paterson, Managing Director of NEOM Sport, reinforced this view, appreciating the program’s role in building a vibrant and inclusive community.

Overall, the cricket program demonstrates NEOM’s vision of placing sports and physical wellness at the forefront of lifestyle activities. This initiative also strengthens NEOM’s aspiration to establish itself as a global sports destination through strategic partnerships and community-focused sporting events.