Sambalpur/Cuttack,Sep 18: Lucknow-based Green City Hospitals has acquired full ownership of the Sambalpur Warriors ahead of the Odisha Premier League 2026. The acquisition marks the healthcare group’s entry into franchise cricket and opens a new chapter for a side that finished as runners-up last season.
The acquisition is driven by a long-term plan to build the Sambalpur Warriors into a strong and competitive franchise, with a clear focus on creating opportunities for Odisha’s emerging cricketers. The new management will also work towards building a side that represents Sambalpur and connects with supporters across the region.
The Warriors will go into the new season under head coach and former India international Sanjay Raul, with Gaurav Chaudhary leading the side as captain. Having come close last season, the franchise will look to carry that momentum forward and go one step further this time.
For Dr. Vineet Kumar Verma, Owner of the Sambalpur Warriors and Director of Green City Hospitals, the acquisition goes beyond owning a cricket team. It is a step towards building a sporting platform that represents the aspirations of the region and gives talented young cricketers a stage to show what they can do at a competitive level.
“Cricket has a remarkable ability to bring people and communities together. When the opportunity to acquire the Sambalpur Warriors came to us, we saw it as something far bigger than a team playing in a tournament. We want the Warriors to represent the spirit of Sambalpur and give people here a side they can truly connect with and take pride in,” said Dr. Verma.
Alongside results on the field, the new ownership will place particular emphasis on identifying and developing talent, and on giving young cricketers the opportunity to prove themselves. The aim is to strengthen the franchise steadily, on and off the field, with a long-term view.
“Our immediate goal is to go one step further and bring the trophy home to Sambalpur. But our commitment goes well beyond a single season. We want to develop young players, create opportunities for them and build the Sambalpur Warriors into a strong and respected franchise. For us, success will be measured by what we achieve on the field as well as the legacy we build outside it,” said Dr. Verma.
The Sambalpur Warriors begin their Odisha Premier League 2026 campaign on 20 September against defending champions Cuttack Panthers at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. A repeat of last season’s final, the fixture gives the Warriors the chance to start the season with fresh intent under Green City Hospitals’ ownership.
