Lucknow: Resonating with cheers, nostalgia, and youthful energy, the sprawling grounds of Colvin Taluqdars’ College, Lucknow, came alive as the institution hosted a much-awaited cricket match between the Old Boys and the Present Boys on Sunday, 21 December 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Far more than a sporting contest, the match became a vibrant celebration of legacy, camaraderie, and the timeless values of discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship that define Colvinian spirit.
The morning unfolded on a warm and emotional note with the welcome and felicitation of the Chief Guest, Dr. Shantanu Pande, Senior Cardiologist at SGPGIMS, Lucknow, and Guest of Honour, Amitabh Arya, Department of Nuclear Medicine, SGPGIMS, Lucknow—both distinguished Ex-Colvinians. They were felicitated by Principal Mr. Sachidanand Singh, whose words reflected pride in seeing alumni return to the campus that shaped their formative years. The guests expressed heartfelt joy at being back on familiar turf, witnessing a match that symbolised the enduring bond between past and present.
Adding further dignity to the occasion were respected members of the College Management Committee, including Kr. Manish Vardhan Singh, Secretary and Manager, Raja Anil Pratap Singh, Vivek Seth, Rai Swareshwar Bali, Kr. Dhyan Pal Singh, and Vasudhendra Pratap Singh. Also present were Anupama Singh, Principal (U.P. Board Wing), and Sangeeta Singh Chauhan, Headmistress, underscoring the institution’s collective commitment to holistic development through academics and sport.
Following the formal introduction of both teams, the toss was won by the Old Boys, who chose to bat first. Led by their captain Dr. Asim Tikku, the Old Boys showcased experience, composure, and tactical discipline. The match progressed amid loud applause, friendly banter, and an atmosphere charged with enthusiasm and mutual respect, as the Present Boys rose to the challenge with youthful zeal and determination.
At the end of a spirited contest, the Old Boys clinched victory by 155 runs in 17 overs, earning admiration from spectators for their cohesive performance. Ritesh Tiwari was deservedly declared Man of the Match for his outstanding contribution, while the winning team was felicitated with mementoes in recognition of their achievement.
Beyond runs and wickets, the match emerged as a poignant reunion—where memories were revisited, friendships rekindled, and the Colvin legacy reaffirmed through sport. The occasion served as a bridge connecting generations, celebrating not just cricket, but the enduring values, traditions, and shared pride of the Colvinian community.
The celebrations will culminate with the Darbar Day on 23 December 2025, beginning 2:00 p.m. onwards, with Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, gracing the occasion as Chief Guest, marking a grand finale to the institution’s ongoing centenary celebrations.
