161 Bn CRPF organises cricket tournament in Srinagar to promote sports

Srinagar, Sep 18: In a significant move to promote sports and engage youth, the 161 Battalion of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) organised a cricket tournament under its Civic Action Program across various venues in Downtown Srinagar.

A statement said that the initiative, which aligns with the government's efforts to encourage sports participation, saw 24 cricket teams from numerous areas including Noorbagh, Eidgah, Saidpora, and Badamwari competing in a white-ball T-20 format.

The tournament, which commenced on August 6, concluded with a thrilling final match on September 18, at the Eidgah ground. Over the course of 44 days, 23 matches were played, drawing large crowds of spectators who enjoyed high-quality cricket at Tengpora and Eidgah grounds.

The primary objective of this sporting event was to provide a platform for cricket enthusiasts from Downtown Srinagar to showcase their skills at a higher level. Additionally, the tournament aimed to nurture the cricketing passion among youth and steer them away from the perils of drug abuse. The enthusiastic participation of 384 players, aged between 17 and 38 years, underscored the success of this initiative.

In a display of exceptional talent, three teams emerged as top contenders for the next phase of the tournament: Sangam Super Kings, Syedpora Warriors, and Star Light Cricket Club Eidgah. These teams will advance to Phase-II, scheduled to begin in the near future.

The final match, a face-off between Sangam Super Kings and Syedpora Warriors, took place on September 18, 2024, at 12:00 PM at the Eidgah Cricket Ground. Sangam Super Kings clinched victory in an exciting finale. Individual performances were also recognized, with Sahid Sanuallah Bhatt of Syedpora Warriors being named Man of the Series, while Samir Ranga of Sangam Super Kings received the Man of the Match award for the final game.