Srinagar,March 16: 15 budding young women cricketers of Kashmir Valley embarked upon cricket tour to Pune, an initiative under Sadbhavana project by Chinar Corps in collaboration with Aseem Foundation. The tour aimed to nurture sports talent, promote sportsmanship and national integration and introduce young generation to diverse cultural hues of India. The team having arrived in Pune this week, visited the MCA sports complex, Gahunje and interacted with local young cricketers and all scheduled to play series of matches.

The first match of the Kashmir-Pune Friendship Trophy, held at MCA Ground 2, Gahunje, was not just about cricket but a celebration of resilience, courage and true sportsmanship. Well fought game saw the Kashmir team, coming straight from subzero temperatures and displaying remarkable dedication and passion on the field. Their incredible journey and determination earned them not just admiration but also the trophy itself; in an extraordinary gesture, the MCA team, after winning the match, handed over the trophy to the Kashmir Women Team in recognition of their sportsmanship, perseverance and resilience.

            The match was graced by the Commandant, NDA, who applauded the efforts of the Chinar Corps, congratulating them for their commitment to this initiative, which has been empowering youth from Kashmir since 2020.The toss was conducted by renowned sports journalist Sunandan Lele, who also spent time interacting with the players before the match, sharing valuable insights and motivation. The presence of MCA Apex Team members, including CEO and Secretary, made the occasion even more special, reaffirming MCA’s strong commitment to supporting women’s cricket.

            Sarang Gosavi, Aseem Foundation, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all dignitaries and specially thanked Indian Army and MCA for their unwavering support in making this initiative a success. A moment of reflection was dedicated to Late Col Manpreet Singh, KC,SM a charismatic leader who made supreme sacrifice, in line of duty and was awarded Kirti Chakra posthumously last year. With the spirit of cricket and friendship taking center stage, the Women Cricket Team tour to Pune has set the tone for more inspiring moments in the matches to come. This event would provide a unique opportunity to our Kashmiri women cricketers to break barriers, give wings to their dreams and inspire the young generation to pursue their aspirations.