Army organises Cricket League in Banihal

Banihal, Nov 21: In an effort to promote physical fitness and foster sportsmanship among the youth,  the Army camp Banihal is organising the "Captain Atul Somra Cricket League 2023" from November 21 to December 1, at Cricket Ground Bankoot Banihal in Ramban district.

A statement said that Captain Atul Somra of 12 RR stationed at Banihal was martyred in a day long encounter in Banihal town on Jammu Srinagar national highway, some two decades back in which four terrorists were killed by army. A tribute was also paid to captain Atul Somra on the occassion.

This inaugural cricket tournament holds special significance as it is being played on the cricket ground dedicated and constructed by the civil administration for the region's youth.

Thirty-two teams from various parts of Ramban District have registered for the tournament, including teams fielded by twenty-four Panchayats of Banihal and eight teams from other tehsils.

The inaugural match was played between Lions Cricket Club Gund and Nowgam Warriors on November 21.

The tournament was inaugurated by civil dignitaries DDC Chairman Banihal, Imteyaz Ahmad Khandey and SDM Banihal, Zaheer Abbas Bhat, PM MGCPL, Jasmeet Singh and locals who commended the Army's continuous efforts in providing opportunities for local teams to showcase their sporting talents in presence of media. With the efforts of local media, the event generated a tremendous response from the youth across the remote villages of Ramban District, the statement said.