Early Times Report JAMMU, May 1: The Khelo Khel-Bhulo Nasha T20 Championship for Officers/Sports lovers, organized by the Masters Cricket Association of India (MCAI) with the support of the J&K Sports Council, commenced today at the M.A. Stadium, Jammu. The championship was inaugurated by Shri Rajesh Gill, Deputy Director Prosecution, Jammu, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Shri Sudhir Singh, Retired Executive Engineer, and Shri Altaf Hussain, Senior Prosecutor, were the Guests of Honour. The championship is being organized to promote sportsmanship, fitness, and social awareness among officers, in line with the broader objective of building a healthier and drug-free society. Addressing the gathering, Shri Rajesh Gill stated that the primary objective of organizing such sporting events is to support the vision of His Excellency, the Hon'ble Lieutenant Governor, to make Jammu & Kashmir "Nasha Mukt." He highlighted that the ongoing 100 Days Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Campaign is a significant initiative aimed at eradicating drug abuse from society. He emphasized that sports play a crucial role in promoting a healthy lifestyle and channelizing the energy of youth towards constructive activities. "Such events not only foster physical fitness and team spirit but also serve as an effective medium to spread awareness against substance abuse," he added. The Chief Guest appreciated the efforts of the organizing team for successfully conducting the championship and called upon officers and sports enthusiasts to actively participate in such initiatives to strengthen the mission of a drug-free Jammu & Kashmir. Shri Rajesh Gill also acknowledged the support of the Secretary, J&K Sports Council, for providing the ground and necessary facilities for the smooth conduct of the event. Shri Sudhir Singh, Retired Executive Engineer, also spoke on the occasion and stated that more such cricket events under the banner of MCAI will be organized in the near future to spread awareness in society about adopting a healthy lifestyle and to continue supporting the campaign aimed at making Jammu & Kashmir "Nasha Mukt." Earlier, the inaugural match of the tournament, played in a 20-over format, was held between Media Masters and Kandi Masters. Batting first, Kandi Masters scored 149/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Talib Hussain was the top scorer with 62 runs (7 fours and 3 sixes), followed by Suresh (28) and Jatinder Singh (26). For Media Masters, Rahul Khatri was the standout bowler, claiming 4 wickets, while Saranjeet Singh and Dada took 2 wickets each, and Sahil Kumar picked up 1 wicket. In response, Media Masters chased the target comfortably in 17.2 overs, losing just 2 wickets, and secured victory by 8 wickets. Saranjeet Singh led the batting with an impressive 83 runs (10 fours and 2 sixes), while Lakhbinder scored 26 and Amit Kumar added 19 runs. For Kandi Masters, Rajiv Jasrotia took 2 wickets. The match was officiated by Ashok and Vijay as umpires. The organizing team includes Rajesh Gill, Amit Kumar, Sudhir Singh, Jatinder Raina, Vishal, and Gurdeep Singh. |