Dimpaur, June 19 (EMN): Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA) held a felicitation programme for three teams -- senior men's, senior women's, and under-19 boys -- that qualified for the elite group at Niathu Resort, Chümokedima on June 18.
Kechangulie Rio, President of NCA, in his address, informed that the main purpose of the event is to recognise and encourage the players on their achievements, both at the national and state level and said that Nagaland cricket has witnessed growth over the years, a DIPR report informed.
All the 11 district cricket associations that participated in the recently concluded inter-district tournament, held at Sovima Cricket Ground from June 4 to the 18th, were presented with the prizes.
Meanwhile, special Guest and advisor to the chief minister, Abu Metha congratulated the three teams for qualifying for the elite group and reminded the players that there were hundreds of people from different professions who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.
Describing cricket as an education, Metha said that cricket teaches respect, teamwork and tests character, where one has to make decisions according to the situation.
The most-watched human activity in the world is sports and sports unify people; it understands no language, tribe, or race, he added.
The special guest, while encouraging the players, also reminded them that once they wear the Nagaland jersey, they become the ambassadors representing two million Nagas.
There is no shortcut in sports, one has to perform on the ground and to achieve it, one needs to possess three things i.e., hard-work, hard-work and hard-work, Metha said.
Short speeches were also delivered by Sachin Jaiswal, DC Dimapur; Abhinav Shivam, DC Chümokedima; Dr. Watizulu Susumeren, vice president of All Indian Badminton Association; Rennedy Singh, former Captain Indian football team; players and supporting staff.