Pratik Bijlani –
The Indian Maritime Premier League (IMPL) returned in grand style for its highly anticipated fourth edition, once again bringing together professionals from across India’s maritime sector in a vibrant celebration of sportsmanship, camaraderie and industry-wide collaboration. Hosted by Marex Media and powered by ATPI, the annual box-cricket tournament has grown into one of the most anticipated highlights on the maritime social and sporting calendar. Held on 13–14 December at Celebrations Sports Club, Mumbai, IMPL Season 4 witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 37 teams competing across four turfs over two action-packed days.
The tournament opened with a colourful and energetic inauguration ceremony that set the tone for the days ahead. Capt. Kamal Chadha, Managing Director of Marex Media, welcomed the maritime fraternity to Season 4, highlighting the league’s growing scale and the spirit of unity it continues to foster within the industry. He was joined by distinguished guests including Mrs. Renuka Nayar, Chairperson of Celebrations Sports Club; Capt. Raj Likhari and Ms. Veena Likhari; and Mr. C.K. Sharma, all of whom added prestige to the occasion.
A unique cultural dimension was added to the inauguration through a special Mallakhamb performance by the Mallakhamb Revolution team, led by Sagar Rane, son of Swapnil Rane of NYK. The performance, showcasing one of India’s oldest traditional sports, was met with wide appreciation and symbolised the deep-rooted connection between India’s cultural heritage and its maritime community. Speaking during the inauguration, Capt. Chadha said, “IMPL is not just about competition on the field; it is a celebration of our maritime fraternity coming together under the sun with the same spirit and energy that drives our industry. By showcasing traditions like Mallakhamb, we also honour India’s rich cultural heritage alongside the strength and unity of our maritime community.”
Following the cultural performance, dignitaries and participants took part in a balloon release ceremony, marking the official commencement of the tournament. The competition that followed lived up to expectations, with teams displaying high levels of skill, teamwork and sportsmanship.
The 37 participating teams were divided into eight groups and battled it out through the group stages, semi-finals and finals over the two days, creating an atmosphere charged with excitement both on and off the field.
As matches progressed, the intensity increased, culminating in a thrilling conclusion. Atlantas Group emerged as the champions of IMPL Season 4, delivering a consistent and commanding performance throughout the tournament. Scorpio Marine Management (India) Pvt. Ltd – Team 2 secured the position of first runners-up, while MMS Maritime (India) Pvt. Ltd – Team 2 finished as second runners-up, rounding off a competitive podium.
Individual excellence was also recognised, reflecting the league’s commitment to celebrating both team spirit and personal achievement. Mandar Patil of Atlantas Group was awarded Best Bowler (Male), while Gauri Kudtarkar, also from Atlantas Group, took home the Best Bowler (Female) title. In the batting category, Samadhan Aherkar from MMS Maritime (India) Pvt Ltd – Team 2 was named Best Batter (Male), and Sagarika Bane of Scorpio Marine Management (India) Pvt Ltd – Team 2 won Best Batter (Female). Fielding brilliance was acknowledged with Amey Kadam of Scorpio Marine Management (India) Pvt Ltd – Team 2 receiving Best Catcher (Male) honours, while Michelle D’Mello from MMS Maritime (India) Pvt. Ltd – Team 2 was awarded Best Catcher (Female).
Beyond the scores and trophies, IMPL Season 4 reaffirmed its role as a unifying platform for the maritime fraternity—one that transcends professional roles and organisational boundaries. By blending competitive sport, cultural expression and networking opportunities, the Indian Maritime Premier League continues to strengthen bonds within the industry, making it a celebration not just of cricket, but of the shared identity and collective spirit of India’s maritime community.
Marex Media