Odisha Cricket Association Seeks Divine Blessings for India-South Africa T20 Match

In a heartfelt gesture, the Odisha Cricket Association has offered the first ticket for the upcoming T20 match between India and South Africa to Lord Jagannath. This symbolic act, aimed at seeking blessings for the smooth conduct of the game, took place at the Shree Jagannath temple in Puri. OCA officials, including secretary Sanjay Behera, participated in this unique ritual. Additionally, Odisha's Chief Minister has purchased tickets for the match, further highlighting the significance of this event at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. Read on to discover more about this blend of sports and spirituality.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 1, 2025, 14:20 IST

OCA's Unique Gesture at Jagannath Temple

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) has taken a unique step by presenting the inaugural ticket for the upcoming T20 match between India and South Africa, scheduled for December 9, to Lord Jagannath. This gesture is aimed at seeking the deity's blessings for the successful execution of the event, as stated by an official on Monday.

On Sunday, OCA secretary Sanjay Behera, along with several association members, presented the ticket at the Shree Jagannath temple in Puri.

The official from OCA remarked, "This ticket was offered at the Lord's lotus feet as a symbolic invitation, requesting his divine blessings."

Sources from OCA revealed that Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has also purchased tickets for the international cricket match taking place at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack.

OCA president Pankaj Lochan Mohanty and Behera visited the chief minister at his residence to hand over the tickets.