Baramulla: The Rafiabad Cricket Tournament commenced with enthusiasm at Dangiwacha Stadium on Tuesday, bringing together local youth, sports enthusiasts and members of civil society in a celebration of sportsmanship, youth engagement and community participation.The tournament is being organised by Dangiwacha Camp of 32 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) under the aegis of Headquarters 7 Sector RR.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by the Second-in-Command (2IC), 32 RR, along with the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Langate Range, besides other administrative and civil dignitaries.
As part of the inauguration, a special tree plantation drive was also organised at Dangiwacha Stadium. Army personnel, Forest Department officials and police officers, including SDPO Chizama and SHO Dangiwacha, jointly planted saplings to promote environmental conservation and enhance greenery in the area.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from local sports lovers, civil society members and prominent personalities, who gathered at the venue to encourage the participating teams and support the sporting initiative.
The opening match was played between Sopore XI and Langate Cricket Club, marking the beginning of the tournament.
In a major incentive for the participating teams, the finalists of the Rafiabad Cricket Tournament will secure direct qualification for the prestigious Kilo North Cricket Tournament, scheduled to be held at Chandigam, Lolab, in October 2026.
The initiative reflects the continued efforts of the security forces, civil administration and local community to promote sporting talent among youth, encourage healthy engagement and strengthen bonds between communities across the region.
