32 teams participate in Mandi cricket tourney

As part of the upcoming International Shivratri Festival, the Chhoti Kashi Shivratri Premier League Cricket Tournament officially commenced today. The festival will take place from February 27 to March 5 in Mandi town. The tournament kicked off here today with an opening ceremony at the Paddal Ground, inaugurated by Mandi Superintendent of Police (SP) Sakshi Verma.

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The inauguration saw the presence of sports enthusiasts and dignitaries. During the event, chairperson of the sports committee SP Verma emphasised that sports are not just a source of entertainment but also a powerful means of channeling the youth’s energy in a positive direction. She highlighted that this event would offer a platform to budding players from the region to showcase their talent and encourage the youth to stay away from drugs. Additionally, it would help in promoting a drug-free Mandi and inspire participation in sports.

She noted that the festival is renowned for its cultural, religious and sporting activities. This year, after 25 years, cricket has been reinstated as one of the main attractions of the festival, which is expected to enhance the grandeur of the event.

The tournament will feature 32 teams, including some of the best from Mandi district and surrounding areas. Matches will be played on a knockout basis, starting from today till February 12. The winning team will receive an attractive prize and a trophy.

The first match of the tournament was played between Samrahan XI and Young Star; the second match was between Suzuki XI and Galaxy XI. The organising committee has called on sports fans to come in large numbers to support the players and be a part of this historic event.

Cricket tournament coordinator DSP Dinesh Kumar, co-coordinator Anil Sen, secretary Rajender Pal, press secretary Dinesh Kumar, and other committee members were also present at the inauguration.