DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
Kathua, Oct 16
The Department of Youth Services and Sports (DYSS) Kathua commenced the Inter-Division Union Territory (UT) level Cricket Tournament for U-17 boys today at the Sports Stadium, Kathua. The event, scheduled from 16th to 18th October 2024, is being conducted under the directions of Rajinder Singh Tara (JKAS), Director General of Youth Services and Sports, Jammu and Kashmir UT. This tournament is a part of the annual sports calendar assigned by the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports, Jammu & Kashmir.
The tournament is being organized under the meticulous guidance of Ved Parkesh (JKAS), Joint Director of Youth Services and Sports, Jammu, and is supervised by DYSSO Kathua, Sunil Singh Sambyal. The opening ceremony was marked by the presence of several dignitaries. Mangat Ram Sharma, Chief Education Officer, Kathua, graced the event as the Chief Guest, while the Guest of Honour was the Principal of Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Kathua.
Other notable figures in attendance included ZPEO Barnoti, Pardeep Singh, Activity Incharge Dharminder Singh Shally, Parveen Singh Lakhanpuria from Lakhanpur, and field staff of the District Kathua Sports Office. The presence of these officials highlighted the significance of the event, which is seen as an important part of the youth engagement strategy of the district.
During his address, the Chief Guest Mangat Ram Sharma emphasized the importance of sports in shaping the character of young individuals. He urged the players to uphold the true spirit of sportsmanship and fair play, stressing that participation in sports not only builds physical fitness but also fosters discipline, teamwork, and leadership qualities. Sharma encouraged the players to give their best effort and make the most of the opportunities provided by such tournaments. Before the match, DYSSO Kathua, Sunil Singh Sambyal, welcomed the Chief Guest and the participating teams from both divisions, Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed his gratitude for the support of the dignitaries and officials present and wished the players success in the tournament.
The first match of the tournament saw Jammu Division winning the toss and electing to bat first. However, the team struggled to build a significant total, getting all out for 84 runs in 17.1 overs. At the time of the last update, the second inning was in progress, and players from Kashmir Division were preparing for their chase.
This tournament is expected to promote a healthy competitive spirit and encourage youth participation in sports across the Union Territory. Further matches will take place over the next two days, with more exciting performances expected from the young cricketers.
