The first-ever “Bengal-Britain Travel Friendship” cup saw team UK in Kolkata lose to team TAFI (Travel Agents Federation of India) in an exciting T20 match that went down to the very last ball.

On January 27 and 28, 2024, the British Deputy High Commission Kolkata organized a cricket competition at the Police Athletic Club in association with travel trade partners Travel Agents Federation of India, SKAL International, and Travel Agents Association of India.

They are taking advantage of this and other sports diplomacy chances to strengthen the links to Kolkata’s travel and tourist industry. This opens up opportunities to deepen ties between the people of the UK and India and those who share a passion for cricket with.

The finals were played between the UK in Kolkata vs TAFI on Sunday 28 January. Kishore Madnani was announced the Man of the Match. Siddhant Agarwal, the youngest player on the field at age 14, was announced as Impact Player of the Finals. Amit Sengupta, Captain of the UK in Kolkata team was recognized as the Highest Wicket Taker and Player of the Series.  

Dr. Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner to East and Northeast India congratulated team TAFI on winning the trophy. “I am proud of our home team in Kolkata, who gave it their all to win the match until the very last ball of the last over. Our attempts to strengthen ties between the UK and India include sports diplomacy initiatives like this one because England is currently enjoying a winning streak following their first Test match against India. By collaborating with appropriate partners, we seek to fortify our living bridge that connects Bengal and Britain. In the future, I hope to see women’s teams competing in events as well” said Dr.Fleming.

This triumph represents the lasting friendship between the two countries and goes beyond simply taking home a trophy. The occasion not only encourages athletic prowess but also mutual respect and awareness of one another’s rich cultural history.

Priyanka Dutta