Keonjhar Miners were crowned champions of the Bharat Masala Odisha T20 League — CM Trophy on 1 October 2026 after dismantling Sambalpur Warriors by nine wickets in the final at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack. The comprehensive victory capped a remarkable comeback campaign for the Miners, who had lost their opening two matches of the tournament before winning every game that followed.

Sambalpur Warriors' Batting Collapse

Sambalpur Warriors were bowled out for a modest 102 in 18.3 overs, their innings defined by a steady loss of wickets that left them reeling at 55 for 8 at one stage. The Warriors never found the momentum required to post a competitive total, as Keonjhar's bowlers maintained discipline throughout. Jamala Mohapatra was among the standout performers with the ball, returning figures of 2 for 13 in four overs to play a key role in keeping the Warriors under wraps.

Pattanayak and Senapati Seal the Title

Keonjhar's chase began with an early wobble when opener Rajesh Dhupar was dismissed for just 1 run off 4 deliveries. However, Mayank Pattanayak and captain Subhranshu Senapati steadied the innings and then dominated, stitching together an unbeaten 89-run partnership to guide the Miners home without further alarm. Pattanayak was the aggressor, blazing an unbeaten 72 off 34 deliveries, while Senapati contributed an assured 32 not out off 26 balls. The pair remained composed and crossed the finish line in style.

Captain Senapati Credits Team Spirit

Speaking after the victory, Keonjhar captain Subhranshu Senapati credited the collective effort of the entire squad and management. 'I am extremely happy with this victory. I would especially like to thank our team owner and support staff for the way they stood by us throughout the tournament. We lost our first two matches, and making a comeback from that position was not easy. The support and belief they showed in us played a huge role in our journey,' Senapati said. He added: 'The credit also goes to all the players, who remained committed to the team and played for each other. Their dedication was visible on the field, and I am delighted that we have finished the tournament as champions.'

Owner Khemka Hails Players' Resilience

Team owner Pratyush Manish Khemka was effusive in his praise for the group's character following the title win. 'It has been a fantastic game and an incredible journey for us. Although we lost our first two matches in the tournament, the team showed tremendous character to bounce back and win three games in a row. We carried that momentum into the final and delivered a dominant performance,' Khemka said. He added that watching the players perform with such commitment and unity was a source of immense personal pride.

Awards, Dignitaries and the Trophy Ceremony

Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and Rajya Sabha MP Manmohan Samal presented both the winner's cheque and the championship trophy to the Keonjhar Miners at the ceremony. The winner's medals were handed out by Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) President Pankaj Lochan Mohanty. Among the other dignitaries present were Suryabanshi Suraj, Odisha's Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, and Bhartruhari Mahatab, Member of Parliament from Cuttack.

Season honours were distributed across the evening. Vageesh Sharma of Keonjhar Miners swept both the Player of the Season and the Purple Cap for the tournament's leading wicket-taker. The Orange Cap for the highest run-scorer went to Shantanu Mishra, while Swastik Samal was recognised with the Moment of the Season award. The Miners' journey — from wooden-spoon candidates after round one to championship winners — became the defining narrative of the inaugural edition.