Bhubaneswar-A emerged champions in the 2nd Inter-District Veterans Cricket Tournament, defeating Puri by seven wickets in the final at IDCO ground here today. Electing to bat, Puri lost wickets in regular intervals to be all out for 76. Ashok Panda (4 for 14) and Manoj Chhabra (3 for 4) destroyed the Puri batting line-up with a combined effort of seven wickets.

In reply, Bhubaneswar-A overhauled the target in 17.4 overs, losing three wickets in the process. Amaresh Mohanty emerged another outstanding performer for the winners, bagging two wickets for 36 runs and hitting an unbeaten 32. Manoj Chhabra was adjudged the man of the tournament. The two-day tournament was organised by Veterans` Cricket Association of Odisha.

Earlier in the semifinals, Manoj Chhabra shone with both bat and ball to guide Bhubaneswar-A to a thrilling three-run win over Cuttack, while Puri prevailed over Bhubaneswar-B by 11 runs. The two-day tournament was organised by Veterans` Cricket Association of Odisha.