Pick sports over substance, says Guv; kicks off gully cricket tournament

The 3rd edition of the Gully Cricket Tournament was formally inaugurated by UT Administrator and Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria at the Sector 17 Tiranga Urban Park.

The tournament, being organised by the UT Cricket Association (UTCA) in association with the Chandigarh Police, has drawn participation of 7,000 boys and girls between the age of 14 and 19, representing 576 teams, claimed organisers.

The event is supported by the Chandigarh Administration, Municipal Corporation, besides Social Welfare, Sports, Education and Health departments and other stakeholders. “This is a commendable effort by the UTCA 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 anti-drug campaigns at the grassroots level,” said Kataria, who also donated Rs 20 lakh for organising the tournament, which is being sponsored by other private entities as well.

SSP Kanwardeep Kaur in her vote of thanks assured complete support from the UT police. The tournament will follow a 10-over-a-side format and will be played across 18 designated grounds across the city. The final is scheduled to be held on May 11. Meanwhile, during the opening ceremony, the police had to struggle to control a clash erupted between participants.

Chandigarh