The second season of the cricket program co-hosted by NEOM and the Rajasthan Royals for NEOM employees and contractors concluded successfully over the weekend (December 13) with a men’s final.
The event, organized by Alfanar Global Development at one of NEOM’s largest cricket grounds, marked a season with an 85% increase in participation compared to the inaugural year.
The cricket program is a cornerstone of NEOM’s multi-year partnership with the Indian Premier League franchise. Building on the 2023 pilot program, the second season featured a T10-style tournament comprising 146 matches and 84 teams drawn from over 150 companies. The tournament showcased talent and underscored NEOM’s commitment to fostering a physically active society.
The finale, witnessed by 2,000 spectators and cricketing legends Rahul Dravid and Kumar Sangakkara, saw the Tabuk Tigers clinch victory against the NESMA Fighters. The six-month-long competition culminated in this match. Additionally, the event spotlighted NEOM’s inaugural women’s cricket initiative with an exhibition match between two women’s teams.
Chairman of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation Prince Saud bin Mishal Al Saud said: “We are delighted to support NEOM’s cricket partnership with the Rajasthan Royals, which aligns 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 significant contributor to the Kingdom’s sports ambitions.”
Managing director of NEOM Sport Jan Paterson stated: “NEOM’s partnership with the Rajasthan Royals reflects our 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 across NEOM.”
She added: “Together with the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation and the Rajasthan Royals, we are creating pathways for men, women, boys, and girls to actively engage in cricket, strengthen community ties, and contribute to the growth of the sport across the Kingdom.”
Lead owner of Rajasthan Royals Manoj Badale remarked: “Transforming society through cricket is central to everything the Royals do, and our partnership with NEOM aligns perfectly with this purpose. Beyond the boundaries of the game, this collaboration fosters participation, inclusivity, and active lifestyles. Over the past couple of years, cricket has demonstrated its ability to connect and inspire communities, and we are thrilled to be part of this mega initiative that has brought the NEOM communities closer.”
Capturing the spirit of community and competition, the NEOM and Rajasthan Royals cricket program supports NEOM’s vision of growing cricket and redefining livability by embedding sport and physical wellness into everyday life, aligning with the Kingdom’s national sports strategy.
NEOM’s collaboration with the Rajasthan Royals underscores its ambition to become a global destination for sports. By forging partnerships with renowned organizations, NEOM champions livability for its residents and contributes to its dynamic economy.
