Anantnag: The Department of Youth Services & Sports remains steadfast in its commitment to providing optimal opportunities for youth engagement in sporting activities. With this vision, the Joint Director of Youth Services & Sports, Kashmir, orchestrated the Cricket Tournament in the Kashmir Division, hosted by the District Youth Services & Sports Office in Anantnag for boys across various age groups—14, 17, and 19 years.
Reports said the event was structured as a League cum Knockout competition to unearth genuine talent. The 14-year category’s final was unfortunately washed out due to heavy rainfall, but the 17-year group proceeded successfully. Ultimately, the stage was set for the 19-year age group, marking the culmination of this remarkable Willow-Leather journey. District Anantnag played the gracious host, ensuring top-notch residential facilities and a hygienic mess for all officials and student players. These arrangements were meticulously prepared in advance to enhance the participants’ overall experience. In the 14-year age category, Bandipora and Pulwama emerged as finalists. Pulwama won the toss, chose to field, and limited Bandipora to a score of 127 runs. Abrar Ahmad led the batting with 41 runs, while Shabir Irshad and Burhan Ashraf claimed three wickets each. Despite a shaky start for Pulwama’s top order, Burhan’s 30 runs off 30 deliveries and Younus’s quickfire 32 off 21 balls secured a 2-wicket victory for Pulwama. Sahil Bilal earned the Man of the Series award, while Burhan was declared the Man of the Match for his exceptional bowling performance. Host District Anantnag secured the third position in the tournament.
In the 17-year age category, a thrilling last-over encounter between Kulgam and Baramulla saw Baramulla clinch the title. Kulgam settled for the runner-up position, with host District Anantnag securing third place. Faizan Ibrahim from Baramulla was named the Man of the Series for his outstanding all-round performance. Despite their valiant efforts, Kulgam couldn’t secure the title, but their cricketing prowess was widely applauded.
In the 19-year age category, North Districts Baramulla and Kupwara faced off. Kupwara chose to field after winning the toss, and Baramulla managed to score 69 runs, with Mudasir being the top scorer with 12 runs. Musaib Mehraj of Baramulla clinched 3 wickets in an economical 3-over spell, and Tanveer Lateef took 2 wickets in 4 overs. Baramulla comfortably achieved the target with a 5-wicket victory, with Sahil Yousuf scoring 39 off 20 balls. Musaib Mehraj was named the Man of the Match. Budgam secured the third position in the 17-year age group.
It is worth noting that the majority of the AAG tournament matches were played on turf wickets, a notable feature of the event. The participating student players expressed their satisfaction with this aspect. Throughout the 69 matches, selectors were present at all venues, and the host district ensured adequate arrangements for press and publicity. Special recognition was given to Shahid Altaf Khan for his exemplary work in technical sound press and publicity.
The tournament concluded with a grand presentation ceremony where trophies were awarded to the top three performers. District Youth Services & Sports Officer extended words of thanks to all involved in making this tournament a success.
