Bihar Chief Secretary Honours Cricketer Anukul Roy; Samastipur Connection Highlighted

Patna:
Bihar Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit on Monday felicitated Anukul Roy, Protocol Officer of the Bihar State Power Holding Company Limited (BSPHCL) and a celebrated all-rounder, in recognition of his outstanding achievement in domestic cricket. The felicitation ceremony was held at Vidyut Bhawan in Patna.

Anukul Roy was honoured with a shawl and a memento after being named ‘Player of the Tournament’ in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2025–26, one of India’s premier domestic T20 competitions. The award was presented for his exceptional all-round performance that played a decisive role in his team’s championship triumph.

Outstanding Performance in SMAT

Roy delivered a stellar performance throughout the tournament, scoring 303 runs and claiming 18 wickets, emerging as the most impactful player of the competition. A video showcasing highlights of his cricketing journey was also screened during the ceremony, drawing appreciation from senior officials and guests.

Congratulating him, Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit said that being named Player of the Tournament among 495 players was a matter of immense pride not only for Samastipur district but for the entire state of Bihar.

Pride for the Power Sector

BSPHCL Chairman-cum-Managing Director Manoj Kumar Singh also congratulated Roy, calling the honour a historic moment for the state power utility. He said Roy’s achievement had enhanced the prestige of the entire “energy family” of Bihar.

From Samastipur to National Recognition

Anukul Roy hails from Bhirha village in Samastipur district, Bihar. Although rooted in Bihar, he chose Jharkhand as his professional base and began his cricketing career representing the state. His brilliant performance in the latest Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy helped Jharkhand clinch the championship title.

Roy is also a familiar face in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he represents the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Cricket enthusiasts will now be keenly watching his performance in the upcoming IPL season.

The felicitation underscored Bihar’s growing contribution to Indian cricket and highlighted how talent from the state continues to make its mark at the national level.