Onlykashmir.in News Desk
MLA Gymkhana Budgam secured its second consecutive title in the 2nd Edition CRPF Cup 2024, defeating Batwara Sports Club by 46 runs in the final at Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium, Srinagar. Batting first, MLA Budgam scored 166/6 in 20 overs, with Tajamul Baba’s all-round performance (60 runs off 43 balls, 5 wickets) earning him the Player of the Match award. Batwara Sports Club was bowled out for 121 in 18.4 overs, despite Affan Wani’s valiant 71-run effort.
The nine-day tournament, held by CRPF’s Srinagar Sector, attracted immense attention, with over 30 lakh viewers following the final via Facebook and 1.3 lakh using the CricHero app for live updates. Local spectators cheered enthusiastically, with Faizan from Nishat noting the event’s role in fostering community spirit.
ADG CRPF J&K, Rajesh Kumar, lauded the tournament for channeling youth energy positively, emphasizing its role in uniting communities and combating drug abuse. He pledged continued support for such initiatives to provide platforms for young talent in Kashmir.
The grand closing ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including Mitesh Jain (IG KOS CRPF), Rajiv Pandey (DIG CKR J&K Police), Imtiyaz Hussain (SSP Srinagar), Majeed Dar (J&K Cricket Association), and Dr. Parvez Sofi (MD, Ujala Hospitals). Liberty Shoes Ltd and Red FM also supported the event.
Pawan Kumar Sharma, IG Srinagar Sector CRPF, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the tournament’s success in engaging youth. He expressed plans to expand future editions to further enhance opportunities for budding cricketers.
MLA Gymkhana Budgam received a Rs 1.5 lakh cash prize and a trophy, while Batwara Sports Club earned Rs 1.25 lakh. Junaid Bashir was named Player of the Tournament, earning Rs 20,000, while Sohail Paul and Shahid Bashir were awarded Best Batsman and Best Bowler, respectively, with cash prizes of Rs 20,000 each. All players from the finalist teams received Liberty shoes.
ADG Kumar reiterated CRPF’s commitment to youth development, stating, “Together with these players, we will work towards eradicating societal challenges like the drug menace.”
