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 as a precursor event to the Lolab Mela 2023. The matches started on 28th Sep and were played on a Knock Out Basis.
The final match of the tournament was played on Oct 06 at Chandigam Sports complex between YMC Club Lolab and Friends 11 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 Friends 11 Lolab.
Player of the Match award was given to Waseem Ahmed Khan, resident of Ramhal Vilgam, who played for Friends 11 Lolab. Player of the tournament award was given to Mohd Imran Khan , Resident of Doniwari, Lolab who played for the team of YMC Club Lolab.
Trophies and exciting cash prizes for the winners and runners up were also awarded to the teams.
Chief Guest for the final match was Mr Nasir Lone, DDC Sogam who graced the occasion and appreciated the initiative and efforts of the Indian Army and local populace. Event was also streamed live on Facebook handle of Cricket Talks Show, a sport handle of locals of lolab. This tournament was a platform for the budding talents of Lolab to showcase their talent and skills.
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.