Melbourne / The Richa Memorial Expert Sagarmatha League has successfully concluded its fifth edition in Melbourne, continuing to deliver a strong message of unity and cooperation through cricket. The tournament was held on Sunday at ACT Cook Reserve, with the participation of 15 cricket clubs, reflecting the growing stature of the league within the community.

Teams competing in this year’s edition included Expert Sagarmatha Blues, Sagarmatha Cricket Club, Chitwan Cricket Club, Brighton Victoria Cricket Club, Far west Hunters Cricket Club, Far west Rangers Cricket Club, Royal Rhinos Cricket Club, Maximax Everest United Cricket Club, Gorkha Lions Cricket Club, Merit Trishuli Thunder Cricket Club, Tricon Cricket Club, Purbanchal Cricket Club, Grace Gorkhali Cricket Club, TWGG Rising Sun Sports Club and Kathmandu Capitals Cricket Club.

Following the final match, Chitwan Cricket Club emerged as the tournament champion, while Brighton Victoria Cricket Club finished as the runner-up after a strong performance. Individual achievements were also recognised, with Dil Pageni winning both the Player of the Series and Best Batter awards. Gulam Kudus Khan was named Best Bowler, Suprim Shrestha received the Best Wicket Keeper award, and Ayush Neupane was honoured as Best Fielder. The NRNA Emerging Player Award was presented to Rhyan Bidur.

The league is organised in memory of Richa Shrestha, who passed away in 2019 after a courageous battle with cancer. Richa was the wife of Bibek Shrestha, President of Expert Sagarmatha Blues, and is fondly remembered for her strength, kindness and positive impact within the community. Each year, the tournament serves as a heartfelt tribute to her life and values.

What began as a small memorial initiative has now grown into a respected annual community event. Through cricket, the Richa Memorial Expert Sagarmatha League brings together players, families and supporters, celebrating values beyond the game.

Entering its fifth year, the league continues to honour Richa Shrestha’s legacy by promoting courage, compassion and unity, reinforcing the powerful role of sport in strengthening community bonds.