Suhail Khan
Kupwara : “Youth is the foundation of the country” and if the foundation is strong then the country will be strong. After having successful anti-terror operations, the Indian army has started new initiatives to groom the future of Kashmiri youth so that a strong nation can be built.
With an aim to infuse sportsmanship, camaraderie and brotherhood among the local youth, Army in Machhal organised a cricket tournament under “Machhal Premier League” 2022 at T-Sunt Payeen in which four teams participated.
Among the four teams including Dudi Daredevils, Thalli Tigers, Khanbal Knights and T-Sunt Titans participated in the league, besides generated immense enthusiasm among the locals who enjoyed every match of this league by supporting to their favorite team.
Pertinently, Youth in Machhal with no play grounds in the area have managed and excelled in this sport mainly due to their passion and dedication towards cricket, and getting opportunity from Army was dream come true said one of the player who was also part of the league.
He said “We really don’t have words how to thanks Army for always coming forward for the welfare of people especially in this border, now this initiative of organising sports event not only boosts the talent of youngsters but gives them chance also to be away from drugs or other illegal activities” he added.
The tournament was conducted on a knock out basis in which four teams played against each other as per draw of lots. On 15 May 2022, after tough & nail biting matches to reach more closer to the winners’ trophy, two teams viz Dudi Daredevils & Khanbal Knights qualified for finals.
The tournament was organised in the lines of IPL, with rules / regulations as per the extant format. Each team played for 12 overs on the pitch prepared alongside beautiful Machhal Nar.
Jan Gan Man in the beginning & Bharat Mata Ki Jai in the end of matches echoed through the valley.
The teams were provided with the kit to play the matches.
The villagers / locals appreciated the effort of Indian Army & praised the level of professionalism during the conduct of this magnificent tournament.
In finals, Dudi Daredevils won against Khanbal Knights by 15 runs after a
scintillating, adrenaline gushing & an amazing match, indeed it was befitting a final.
The winner & runners up teams were presented Golden & Silver Trophies
respectively. All the players of finalist teams were felicitated with medals & kits.
