Lunahare Premier League (LPL) was organised by the Indian Army from 01st to 4th November 2022 to foster sportsmanship and camaraderie among players of Lunahare, Kupwara.This initiative was formed under the umbrella of Sadhbhavana projects which focuses on the socio-economic development of this remote belt in north Kashmir. The event was held at Sunarpura Top in Lunahare village. LPL was 15 overs a side cricket tournament in which four local teams participated namely, Star 11 Holy , Taj Sports A, Taj Sports B & Sunarpora Tigers. The league matches were played on Round Robin basis.
The teams and locals were equally excited with the tournament and it had become the talk of the town. Fingers crossed by all, to see who takes home the big prize. Taj Sports A and Sunarpura Tigers made it to the final, and after a mouthwatering finale Sunarpura Tigers won by 9 wickets to be declared as champions.
However, there were prized up for grabs for all. Both the finalist teams were awarded with brand new cricket kits. In addition, the champions were given a cash prize of Rs 5000/-, the runners up Rs 3000/- and consolation prize of Rs 1000 each to the balance two teams.
”It’s a great initiative by the Indian army to provide a platform for the youth to play sports. Sports are as important as studies, there are so many youths involved in drugs these days and to keep them away, Sports plays a very important role. We should promote sports. ” said Nazir Ah Lone, cricket coach at Loneharie. The tournament was well received by the locals. There were huge crowds of all ages for all the games. It was the talk of the town for last one week and the anticipation.