NEOM, December 16, 2024 – The second season of the highly anticipated cricket program, co-hosted by NEOM and the Rajasthan Royals, concluded with great success over the weekend (December 13) in what can only be described as an exhilarating men’s final. Held at one of NEOM’s largest cricket grounds, the event, organized by Alfanar Global Development, marked a significant milestone for the initiative, showcasing an impressive 85% increase in participation compared to its inaugural season.
This year’s cricket program, a key element of NEOM’s multi-year partnership with the renowned Indian Premier League (IPL) team, Rajasthan Royals, saw its evolution into a vibrant, community-driven event. Building on the success of the 2023 pilot program, the second season featured a dynamic T10-style tournament, which spanned six months and included a total of 146 matches played by 84 teams. These teams, drawn from more than 150 companies across NEOM, competed fiercely, reflecting the growing enthusiasm and commitment to promoting sports as a fundamental part of NEOM’s thriving community culture.
The grand finale of the tournament was nothing short of thrilling. In front of a jubilant crowd of 2,000 spectators, including cricketing icons Rahul Dravid and Kumar Sangakkara, the Tabuk Tigers triumphed over the NESMA Fighters, securing the championship in a spectacular finish. This exciting conclusion to the men’s competition was accompanied by NEOM’s inaugural women’s cricket initiative, which featured an exhibition match between two women’s teams, marking a significant milestone in NEOM’s commitment to inclusivity and gender equity in sports.
Prince Saud bin Mishal Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to support NEOM’s cricket partnership with the Rajasthan Royals, which aligns perfectly with Saudi Arabia's broader goals of developing and growing the sport at every level. By building a vibrant cricket community, we aim to inspire widespread participation and establish cricket as a key pillar in the Kingdom’s sports development strategy.”
Jan Paterson, Managing Director of NEOM Sport, emphasized the growing impact of the partnership, commenting, “NEOM’s collaboration with the Rajasthan Royals reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive community and driving lasting social impact through sport. Building on the success of last year’s pilot program, we are excited to continue developing cricket as a platform for growth, inclusion, and opportunity within the NEOM community.” She added, “Together with the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation and Rajasthan Royals, we are creating pathways for men, women, boys, and girls to actively engage in cricket, strengthen community ties, and contribute to the sport’s expansion across the Kingdom.
Manoj Badale, Lead Owner of the Rajasthan Royals, also reflected on the collaboration’s impact, noting, “Transforming society through cricket is at the heart of everything the Royals do. Our partnership with NEOM aligns perfectly with this purpose. Beyond the game itself, our collaboration fosters participation, inclusivity, and active lifestyles. Cricket has proven its power to connect and inspire communities, and we are thrilled to be part of this monumental initiative that is bringing the NEOM communities closer together.”
The cricket program, which captured the true spirit of community and healthy competition, is a pivotal aspect of NEOM’s broader vision to grow the sport of cricket and redefine livability. By integrating sports and physical wellness into daily life, NEOM is not only enhancing the quality of life for its residents but also contributing to Saudi Arabia’s national sports strategy. The program aligns with NEOM’s ambitious goals of becoming a global hub for sports, with a focus on inclusivity, development, and fostering a culture of active engagement.
The collaboration between NEOM and the Rajasthan Royals underscores NEOM’s aspiration to be at the forefront of global sporting destinations. This partnership is a testament to NEOM’s commitment to creating a dynamic, livable city that champions a healthy, active lifestyle while supporting the Kingdom’s long-term economic and social goals. By leveraging partnerships with renowned organizations, NEOM continues to redefine the future of sport, bringing people together through shared passions and inspiring future generations to embrace the power of sport for personal and community development.