Former India captain Anil Kumble congratulated the winners of the prestigious Naman Awards organised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India. The awards ceremony recognised outstanding performances and contributions to Indian cricket over the past season.

Kumble praised legendary cricketers and current stars who were honoured at the ceremony, highlighting their role in strengthening Indian cricket both on and off the field. He said the awards celebrate the dedication and achievements of players who have made significant contributions to the sport.

The event brought together current cricketers, former legends and officials of Indian cricket to celebrate excellence in the game.

Lifetime Achievement Honours for Legends

Among the major highlights of the ceremony was the recognition of legendary cricketers Rahul Dravid and Roger Binny with the prestigious Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award. The award is considered one of the highest honours presented by the BCCI for outstanding contributions to Indian cricket.

Former India women’s captain Mithali Raj was also honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award in the women’s category, recognising her immense contribution to the growth of women’s cricket in India.

Kumble congratulated the awardees and described them as legends who have shaped the history of Indian cricket.

Gill and Mandhana Shine at Awards

Young Indian stars also dominated the awards ceremony. Star batter Shubman Gill received the Polly Umrigar Award for Best International Cricketer (Men) for his impressive performances during the 2024–25 season.

Meanwhile, Indian women’s team star Smriti Mandhana was named Best International Cricketer (Women), continuing her remarkable run of consistent performances at the international level.

Both players were widely praised for their contributions to India’s success in international cricket.

Celebration of Indian Cricket’s Achievements

The Naman Awards ceremony is held annually to recognise exceptional performances across international, domestic and age-group cricket. The event also honours individuals who have played an important role in shaping the growth of the sport in India.

This year’s ceremony also celebrated several young players and domestic performers who impressed during the season.

Kumble noted that such recognition motivates players to perform better and encourages emerging cricketers to pursue excellence.

Kumble Praises Spirit of Indian Cricket

While congratulating the winners, Anil Kumble emphasised that the achievements of Indian cricketers reflect the depth and strength of the country’s cricketing system.

He said that legends like Rahul Dravid and Roger Binny continue to inspire the next generation of players.

The ceremony served as a celebration of Indian cricket’s past, present and future, honouring legends while recognising rising stars who are shaping the game’s future.

Recognition Across Cricketing Levels

Apart from international stars, the awards also acknowledged outstanding performers in domestic cricket and promising young players. These recognitions underline the importance of grassroots and domestic cricket in building India’s strong cricketing foundation.

With legends honoured and young stars celebrated, the Naman Awards once again highlighted the achievements and continued growth of Indian cricket on the global stage.