Restaurant Cricket League: A Tournament curated to Feed the Poor - Schedule, Teams Announced

The Restaurant Cricket League (RCL), a distinctive national cricket tournament supported by Incredible India and the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, is set to return for its third season on February 19, 2025, at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, New Delhi.

The event, themed "Serving Change, Delivering Impact, and Uniting Communities," combines the love for cricket with a commitment to addressing pressing social issues like food security and waste reduction.

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of Zero Hunger, RCL 2025 aims to create awareness about hunger alleviation, promote sustainable food practices, and facilitate the establishment of food banks for underserved communities. By leveraging the wide-reaching appeal of cricket, the league aspires to drive collective action from individuals and businesses, fostering a more equitable and sustainable society.

RCL 2025 Schedule

The matches of the RCL will be played from February 19 to February 23. This year's league will feature 15 action-packed matches, including 8 league games, 4 quarterfinals, semifinals, and a grand finale. A unique initiative underlines the tournament's social commitment: for every 10 runs scored during RCL 2025, 100 nutritious meals will be distributed to those in need.

The proceeds from the event, gathered through collaborations with leading public and private sector organizations, will directly support these hunger alleviation efforts.

A Platform for Social Impact

Shri Rajiv Pratap Rudy, Honorable Member of Parliament and Honorary Chairman of the Governing Council of RCL, emphasized the league's transformative potential.

"The Restaurant Cricket League (RCL) is a platform that transcends sports to address critical societal challenges. As we look forward to RCL's 2025 season, we are expanding the league's mission to align with Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modi Ji's vision of an AatmaNirbhar Bharat and a developed nation by 2047. RCL will thus not only continue its focus on food security through partnerships with food banks but will also champion other initiatives that promote unity, wellness, and sustainability," Mr. Rudy said.

Celebrating Culture and Diversity

A key feature of RCL 2025 will be its celebration of India's cultural richness. Sixteen state teams will represent the nation's diversity, each named after a regional iconic dish. This creative approach not only showcases the unique cuisines and traditions of India's states but also aims to stimulate domestic tourism and foster a sense of national unity.

Adding to the event's vibrancy, the RCL Taste & Tradition Festival will run alongside the tournament, offering spectators an opportunity to experience regional flavors, arts, and heritage.

RCL 2025 Teams

RCL 2025 will feature players from diverse industries, including hospitality, tourism, entertainment, and technology, representing 16 states of India. The team names are yet to be announced and are expected to be named in due course.

The event will also witness the participation of senior policymakers, notable cricketers, celebrities, and influencers.