Aligarh: As part of the 77th Republic Day Celebrations 2026, a friendly cricket match between the Aligarh Police Administration and the AMU Administration was organised at the Willingdon Cricket Ground under the aegis of the Cricket Club, University Games Committee, Aligarh Muslim University.
The Aligarh Police team, captained by Senior Superintendent of Police Mr. Neeraj Kumar Jadon (IPS), won the toss and chose to field first. Batting first, the AMU Administration team struggled against a disciplined bowling attack and were restricted to 94 runs for the loss of nine wickets in the allotted 20 overs. Table Tennis coach Mr. Naved was the highest scorer with 11 runs, while Prof. Arshad contributed 10 runs.
Pankaj Sharma emerged as the most effective bowler for the Aligarh Police, registering impressive figures of four wickets for 14 runs in his four-over spell.
Chasing a target of 95 runs, the Aligarh Police team reached the target comfortably in 12.4 overs, losing only three wickets. Superintendent of Police Mayank Pathak (IPS) played a superb unbeaten knock of 62 runs, which included eight boundaries, and led his team to a convincing victory. He was well supported by Circle Officer Mahesh Kumar, who scored 19 runs.
From the AMU Administration side, Riyaz, Lamey and Naved claimed one wicket each.
The AMU Administration team was led by Prof. Yusuf Uzzaman Khan, while the match was inaugurated by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Naima Khatoon. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation and was marked by sportsmanship, camaraderie and a festive spirit in celebration of Republic Day.
In the prize distribution ceremony, the former Vice-Chancellor of AMU, Prof. Tariq Mansoor, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mohd Mohsin Khan was the Guest of Honour, while AMU Registrar Prof. Aasim Zafar and Proctor Prof. M. Waseem Ali attended as Special Guests.
Mayank Pathak (IPS), SP, was adjudged man of the Match and Best Batsman for his unbeaten 62-run innings. The Best Bowler award went to Pankaj Sharma for taking four wickets, while the Best Fielder awards were shared by Mahesh Kumar and Deepak Kumar.
Source: AMU Facebook Page