Baramulla(JKNS) : The Grand Finale took place on September 14, 2026, at the General Bipin Rawat Stadium in Baramulla, the first day of night finale in the history of Baramulla. It marked the Culmination of one of the most vibrant and widely participated cricketing tournaments in the Northern Indian region. The tournament celebrated cricket, showcased young talent, upheld Sportsmanship, and encouraged community participation across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. Under the Indian Army’s initiative Wadi-e-Tarjuman aimed at transforming the valley And bringing its hidden talent to the national stage.
The Chinar Premier League (CPL) 2026 was a historic regional cricketing Initiative that brought together cricket enthusiasts from all three regions. Organized By the Indian Army in collaboration with the Baramulla Cricket Forum (BCF), the 2026 edition Of this initiative witnessed an unprecedented level of participation. Out of 130 teams Registered, 79 teams were selected Celebrating India’s 79 year of Independence, including 38 teams from Baramulla and 41 teams representing the wider region. This region Encompassed 10 districts of Kashmir as well as Jammu, Leh, and Kargil. With approximately 1600 young cricketers participating, the tournament provided an inclusive platform for local Talent to showcase their skills, compete, and gain valuable exposure. The tournament Featured an extensive league and knockout structure, with over 112 matches played across eight venues throughout Kashmir. From the opening encounters to the high-intensity finale, CPL 2026 showcased remarkable cricketing talent, competitive spirit, sportsmanship, and determination. The selectors from the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) Witnessed the young talent from the semi-final onwards and highly appreciated the growth Over the years including the Army’s role in it.
The Grand Finale at Gen Bipin Rawat Stadium, Baramulla, was an electrifying Spectacle. It witnessed an electrifying contest between Sultan Warriors Baramulla and Ramzii Sports Srinagar. In a closely fought encounter, the Sultan Warriors emerged Victorious, lifting the coveted CPL 2026 trophy. Their exceptional teamwork, composure, and Determination brought the tournament to a fitting conclusion and earned them a place in the History of the CPL as the winners of the CPL 2026. The Grand Finale brought together cricket Enthusiasts, local youth, school students, civil society representatives, distinguished guests, And community members, creating a vibrant atmosphere. It was a memorable celebration of The region’s passion for cricket. Celebrating Emerging Cricketing Talent. The tournament also provided an Opportunity to celebrate emerging cricketing talent. The selectors from the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) were particularly impressed by the young cricketers’ Performances throughout the tournament. The tournament showcased an impressive pool of Cricketing talent, with players demonstrating remarkable skill, discipline, and competitive spirit Throughout the competition. The presence of experienced Indian Team, Ranji and State-level Players enriched the tournament, providing young participants with an opportunity to compete Alongside and learn from accomplished cricketers. Among the individual achievers, Asim Bashir of Sultan Warriors was adjudged the “Player of the Tournament,” while Adnan Manzoor of Ramzii Sports was recognized as the “Emerging Talent” for an Outstanding performance during the competition. Beyond the cricketing arena, CPL 2026 emerged as a powerful platform for youth Engagement, community participation, and social integration. The enthusiastic support of Spectators, particularly young people and school students, reflected the growing popularity of Cricket and the strong connection between the tournament and the local community. The Participation of teams from across the region transformed the CPL into more than just a Sporting competition; it became a celebration of unity, friendship, sportsmanship, and the Shared aspirations of the youth.Speaking at the Grand Finale, Shri Atal Dulloo, IAS Chief Secretary of J&K Govt, who Graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, expressed appreciation for the efforts of all Stakeholders and participants. He stated, “The Chinar Premier League has evolved into a Celebration of Cricket, talent, and the indomitable spirit of our youth. The discipline, teamwork, And sportsmanship exhibited throughout the tournament are truly commendable. The Participation of teams from across the region has further strengthened the bonds between The Army and the people.” The tournament also highlighted the Army-Community Partnership, showcasing The collaborative efforts between the Army and the community to promote sports and Foster a sense of unity and camaraderie. The successful conduct of CPL 2026 was made Possible by the unwavering dedication of the Baramulla Rashtriya Rifles, Himalayan Brigade, And Dagger Division, all under the aegis of the Indian Army. This initiative exemplifies the Army’s steadfast commitment to providing meaningful opportunities for the youth, fostering Sporting excellence, and strengthening its enduring partnership with the people of the region. The overwhelming response to CPL 2026 has underscored cricket’s potential as a powerful Platform for youth empowerment, talent development, and community engagement. The Organizers expressed their confidence that the tournament will continue to expand in scale And impact in the future, offering an even larger platform for aspiring cricketers and creating Greater opportunities for the youth.(JKNS)
