Before international T20 arrived, city’s scribes were already playing the format

Bhopal: The Inter Press Cricket Tournament in Bhopal is marking its remarkable 31st edition this year, running without interruption for over three decades—a testament to media professionals' unwavering dedication. Interestingly, it adopted the T20 format in the early 2000s, well before international cricket embraced it. Held annually in Madhya Pradesh's capital, this event unites journalists, photographers, and media staff from print, electronic, digital, and radio outlets. Teams form along media house lines, featuring editors, reporters, camerapersons, and support staff competing in league stages, knockouts, and a grand finale at venues like Old Campion Ground.
What truly distinguishes it is its flawless streak: the only cricket tournament in India where media personnel have participated consistently for 31 years. Even during the Covid-19 pandemic, organizers and players rallied with strict protocols—limited crowds, rigorous testing, and health guidelines—ensuring the tradition endured. This resilience underscored the fraternity's unity beyond daily deadlines.Originating in the early 1990s, a group of local journalists and a few media houses channeled their cricket passion into an organized league, starting with just a handful of teams. It has since ballooned into a prestigious Bhopal fixture, attracting statewide entries. Tournament has been organised on various grounds of Bhopal including MVM, Barkatullah University, Bab-e-Aali and Old Campion ground. "The young team took over the organizing committee from 2000-01, switching to the T20 format," said senior sports journalist and committee member Shashi Shekhar.While veterans cherish last-ball thrillers and century-scoring anchors, the charity matches also aid local causes. Since 2007, the chief minister has been inaugurating the event, boosting the prestige associated with it. Sponsorships from local businesses provide trophies, cash prizes, and wide media coverage. Organising the month-long spectacle isn't easy, but as committee member Ramkrishna Yaduvanshi explained, it fosters networking, stress relief, and lifelong bonds. "This is amazing to see that journalists participating in the tournament do not take leaves from their work and never miss to play. This has made this tournament unique," said Yaduvanshi. Indrajeet Maurya, a founding member, and Naved Ishrat highlighted its growth from modest beginnings.In 2026, this media cricket saga shines as a beacon of perseverance amid fleeting trends, proving shared commitment conquers all.