(MOREPIC1)Face2News/Chandigarh
The third edition of the Allengers Gully Cricket Tournament was formally inaugurated by His Excellency Gulab Chand Kataria, Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh at Urban Tiranga Park, Sector 17 on Saturday. The tournament is being organized by the UT Cricket Association (UTCA) in assciation with with the Chandigarh Police has drawn overwhelming participation, with nearly 7000 boys and girls between the ages of 14 and 19 representing 576 teams. The event is well supported Chandigarh Administration, Municipal Corporation, Social Welfare Department, Sports Department, Education Department, Health Department and other stakeholders.
Present at the grand opening ceremony were prominent dignitaries, including UTCA President Sanjay Tandon, IG RK Singh, SSP Kanwardeep Kaur, Sports & Education Secretary Prerna Puri, Principal Secretary to Governor VP Singh, UTCA's Secretary Devender Sharma, State BJP President Jatinder Pal Malhotra, Allengers Group Chairman R.S. Kanwar and other esteemed guests.
(SUBHEAD)In his address, UTCA President Sanjay Tandon expressed pride in the expansion of the tournament, stating, “The tremendous success of the previous editions inspired us to take this initiative forward with the continued support of the police administration, and our sponsors. This tournament is not just about cricket—it stands for the spirit of youth, discipline and the Government of India’s 'Nasha Mukt Abhiyan.' Our goal is to engage and empower the youth through sport.”
He further announced that, likewise previous editions, each participant has been provided with jerseys, cricket kits, refreshments and medical support. He added that efforts are underway to register the tournament in the Guinness Book of Records.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Gulab Chand Kataria while lauding the initiative said, “This is a commendable effort by UTCA and Sanjay Tandon which provides an incredible platform for underprivileged children to connect with sports. While the administration and police are working diligently to curb drug abuse, such initiatives play a crucial role in strengthening that campaign from the grassroots level.”
GOVERNOR DONATED 20 LAKH FOR TOURNAMENT
SSP Kanwardeep Kaur, in her vote of thanks, assured complete support from the Chandigarh Police noting that dedicated police personnel and senior officers have been deployed to ensure a smooth experience for all players throughout the tournament.
The tournament will follow a 10-over-a-side format and will be played across 18 designated grounds across the city. The grand finale is scheduled for May 11, 2025. Adding to the excitement, weekend exhibition matches featuring city intellectuals will further promote the spirit of sportsmanship among the youth.
