34th Inter-Club T20 Cricket Tournament organised by MDCA begins at Imkongmeren Sports Complex with five teams participating.
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MOKOKCHUNG — The 34th edition of Inter-Club T20 Cricket Tournament, organised by Mokokchung District Cricket Association (MDCA), got underway at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung, on Monday.
Atsungba Walling, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Mokokchung and CEO of Mokokchung Municipal Council (MMC), attended the inaugural programme as the special guest.
In his address, Walling said the image of a young boy holding a cricket bat on a dusty playground and dreaming of playing before cheering crowds on a big stage is no longer just a fantasy but an increasingly realistic possibility.
Congratulating the MDCA for sustaining the tournament over the years, he lauded the association’s continued efforts in promoting the game in Mokokchung despite logistical and infrastructure challenges.
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He noted that cricket offers numerous opportunities not only for players but also in roles such as coaching, support staff and sports analysis. Emphasising the sport’s popularity in India, he encouraged young players to pursue their passion with dedication.
MDCA president Imlikumzuk Longkumer informed that the association, under the aegis of Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA), is currently constructing an all-weather practice pitch.
Nagaland Cricket Association, which became a full member of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in 2018, now participates in and hosts BCCI-sanctioned tournaments across various categories, including senior and youth competitions such as men’s U-16, U-19 and U-23, as well as women’s events.
On the sidelines of the inaugural event, Walling, who had earlier represented Zircon CC in the MDCA tournament during the 1990s, recalled that the annual cricket meet was once among the most anticipated sporting events in Mokokchung, attracting over 20 teams, including many from rural areas.
In contrast, participation has significantly declined in recent years, with only five teams competing in the current edition. While the quality of play and tournament management has improved, the number of players and teams has dropped compared to the 1990s and early 2000s.
To help revive interest in the sport, the MDCA is considering introducing a 35+ cricket series for players above the age of 35.
The initiative aims to provide a competitive platform for former players while strengthening the cricket fan base and supporting the development of younger talents.
Despite the absence of a formal cricket academy in Mokokchung, several young players have already made their mark. Odilemba of United Brothers CC has represented the state U-23 team and was recently selected for the senior state side, while siblings Amongti and Salangdangba of Sovran CC have played for the state U-19 team.
To maintain competitive balance while promoting local talent, the MDCA allows teams to include two outstation players in their playing XI.
Fans can follow the tournament through live match updates on cricheroes.com.