@JournalistAadil
Srinagar: The Indian Army has always been at the forefront in nurturing local talent in various fields including games and sports. Cricket is a game which is very passionately played in the heartland of Lolab and is very close to the heart of each and every Lolabian.
Lolab Premier League T-20 Cricket tournament was organised by the Indian Army and Local Cricket Youth Club as a precursor event to the upcoming Lolab Mela 2022. In all 16 teams including two teams representing JKP participated in the said tournament. The matches started on August 1 and were played on a Knock Out Basis.
The final match of the tournament was played on September 3 at Tekipora Sports Ground between YMC Lolab and Friends XI Lolab and had supporters thronging the venue in huge masses to cheer and support their respective favourite team. The fervour at the cricketing extravaganza was a sight to behold. The final match was won by YMC Lolab.
Player of the Match award was given to Hanief resident of Walkul, Lolab who played for YMC, Lolab. Player of the tournament award was given to Zakir Wani who played for the team of Friends XI Lolab.
Trophies and exciting cash prizes for the winners and runners up will also be awarded on the final day of the Lolab Mela 2022.
Chief Guest for the final match was the Deputy Superintendent of Police, Sogam, Ajaz who graced the occasion and appreciated the initiative and efforts of the Indian Army and local populace. This tournament was a platform for the budding talents of Lolab to showcase their talent and skills. The locals also arranged for a mesmerizing dance and music performance as part of the closing ceremony of Lolab Premier League.
The overwhelming crowd is a testimony to the motto of “Badalta Kashmir” (changing Kashmir). The sight of each player holding the hand of a child usherer with a Tricolour in his / her hand showcased the prevalent normalcy in the region and one could not be more satisfied to realise the future of Kashmir is safe in the hands of the youth.