ANANTNAG: The UT-level Inter-District Under-19 Cricket Tournament was inaugurated at Nanil in Anantnag on Monday, bringing together young cricketers from across Jammu and Kashmir.
Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Dr Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat inaugurated the tournament, which is being organised by the Youth Services and Sports Department and hosted by the District Youth Services and Sports Office (DYSSO) Anantnag.
Around 360 players representing 20 district teams are participating in the competition. Matches are being played at four venues located in Nanil, Jablipora and Bijbehara under the supervision of officials from the Youth Services and Sports Department.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Bhat highlighted the role of sports in the overall development of youth and said sporting activities provide a constructive platform for young people while helping steer them away from social challenges, including drug abuse.
He encouraged participants to make sports a regular part of their lives and appreciated the efforts of the Youth Services and Sports Department in organising the tournament.
The event was attended by District Youth Services and Sports Officer (DYSSO) Anantnag Zahoor Ahmad Wani, Tehsildar Anantnag, the Tehsil Social Welfare Officer and other officials.
Officials said the tournament would provide young cricketers with competitive exposure and an opportunity to showcase their talent at the Union Territory level.
