The Odisha T20 League – CM Trophy kicked off in grand style at the iconic Barabati Stadium in Cuttack on Sunday, 20 September 2026, with Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi presiding over a glittering opening ceremony as chief guest. The six-team tournament's launch evening blended competitive cricket with entertainment and cricketing wisdom from the league's brand ambassadors, former India players Suresh Raina and Debashish Mohanty.

Opening Ceremony Highlights

Chief Minister Majhi felicitated both former cricketers along with the franchise owners of all six participating teams during the ceremony. The evening drew large crowds to the storied Barabati Stadium, one of Odisha's most celebrated sporting venues, underscoring the public appetite for franchise-format cricket in the state.

Bollywood actress Mouni Roy headlined a special entertainment segment, captivating spectators with her dance performances. Several prominent Ollywood personalities — Boomika, Shivani, Swapa, Ellina, Sheetal and Cookies — were also present as brand ambassadors for the six competing franchises.

Raina and Mohanty's Message to Young Cricketers

Raina, who has been closely associated with the tournament in his brand ambassador role, addressed the participating players directly. 'First of all, I would like to congratulate everyone for the effort they have put in to bring together such a wonderful event. For all the players, my message is simple, play hard, play fair and, most importantly, enjoy the process. This is a great opportunity for all of you to showcase your talent, learn from the experience and take your game forward,' he said.

Mohanty, himself an Odisha-born former India pacer, stressed the tournament's developmental value. 'The Odisha T20 League is a wonderful opportunity for young cricketers to showcase their talent and compete in a professional environment. A tournament like this can give players the confidence and experience they need to take the next step in their careers. I am happy to be associated with the league and wish all the teams and players the very best for the season,' he said.

OCA's Take on the League's Significance

Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) secretary Sanjay Behera underlined the importance of having high-profile ambassadors to motivate emerging talent. 'It is a matter of great pride for us to have Suresh Raina and Debashish Mohanty associated with the Odisha T20 League. Both have represented India at the highest level and have made a significant contribution to Indian cricket. Their experience and presence will inspire our young players and give them an opportunity to learn from people who have played the game at the highest level,' Behera said.

First Match: Cuttack Panthers vs Sambalpur Warriors

With the ceremony concluded, competitive action began as Cuttack Panthers won the toss and opted to field against Sambalpur Warriors, getting the tournament proper underway. The six-team format is designed to give Odisha's domestic talent a professional, franchise-based stage ahead of national selection cycles.

With state government backing, high-profile brand ambassadors, and a packed Barabati crowd on day one, the Odisha T20 League CM Trophy appears set to become a significant fixture on the domestic cricket calendar — and a stepping stone for the next generation of players from the state.