Wed Mar 05 00:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Kerala Cricket Team Felicitated After Historic Ranji Trophy Run

**Thiruvananthapuram, March 5, 2025** – The Kerala cricket team was lauded for its historic achievement in the Ranji Trophy, reaching the final for the first time. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan led the felicitation ceremony on Tuesday, hailing the team’s performance as a “landmark achievement” comparable to a title win. Despite ultimately finishing as runners-up, the Chief Minister praised their strong showing against Vidarbha and expressed confidence in their future success.

Mr. Vijayan singled out several players, including Sachin Baby, coach Amay Khurasiya, Salman Nizar, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Jalaj Saxena, and Aditya Sarwate, for their exceptional contributions. He also pledged continued state government support for Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) infrastructure projects.

The event, presided over by Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman, was attended by a host of dignitaries, including the Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan and other ministers. Both Mr. Vijayan and Mr. Satheeshan urged the team to champion anti-drug initiatives.

The KCA announced a prize distribution of ₹3 crore from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), supplemented by an additional ₹1.5 crore from the association itself.

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