The coastal city of Mangaluru is set to witness a grand sporting spectacle this weekend, blending cricket, camaraderie, and a tribute to medical legends. The Indian Medical Association (IMA), Mangaluru branch, in collaboration with local medical consultants, is gearing up to host the annual IMA–AMC Premier League–2026 Cricket Tournament.
Event Details and Distinguished Guests
The tournament is scheduled for Saturday at the Sahyadri Engineering College Ground in Adyar, Mangaluru. Adding star power to the event, former international cricketer and current ICC match referee Javagal Srinath will officially inaugurate the matches at 4 pm.
The ceremony will be graced by several eminent personalities as guests of honour. The list includes Dr M Shantharam Shetty, Pro-chancellor of Nitte Deemed University and MD of Tejasvini Hospital; Dr TA Veerabhadraiah, President of the IMA Karnataka State Branch; and Dr Manjunath Bhandary, MLC and Chairman of Sahyadri Engineering College, Adyar.
A Tournament Steeped in Memory and Passion
This event is officially titled the Late Dr MV Shetty–Late Dr Chowdiah Memorial Tournament. It pays homage to two revered doctors who were also passionate cricket enthusiasts. Late Dr MV Shetty served as a professor of general surgery at KMC Mangaluru and as a surgeon at Wenlock Hospital, and had also held the position of president at the IMA Mangaluru branch.
Late Dr Chowdiah was a dedicated radiologist at Wenlock Hospital. Both were deeply involved in and supportive of cricket matches during their lifetimes. The annual tournament and its trophy were initiated and sponsored by Late Dr M Ramgopal Shetty, son of Dr MV Shetty, to perpetuate the memory of his father and their shared love for the sport.
Entertainment and Community Spirit
Beyond the boundary ropes, the event promises vibrant entertainment for all attendees. Organisers have planned a musical night and a performance of the traditional tiger dance (Pili Vesha), ensuring a festive atmosphere that celebrates local culture alongside sporting excellence.
This tournament stands as a significant event in Mangaluru's social and professional calendar, fostering community spirit among medical professionals and sports fans alike. It successfully bridges the worlds of healthcare dedication and sporting passion, creating a lasting legacy for the individuals it honors.
