Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA) held a felicitation program at Niathu Resort, Chumoukedima on 18th June 2022.
Kechangulie Rio, President NCA, in his address, said the main purpose of organizing such an event is to recognize and encourage the players on their achievements both at the national and state level. He said Nagaland Cricket has witnessed perpetual growth over the years and acknowledged the three teams i.e. senior men's team, senior women's team, and under 19 boys team that have qualified for the Elite group. While all the 11 district cricket associations participated in the recently concluded Inter-district tournament that was held at Sovima Cricket Ground on 4th - 18 June where the Dimapur District Cricket team won the tournament and Wokha team was runner's up. Group and individual prizes were presented for the event.
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 cricket teaches you respect and teamwork, and tests character where you have to make your own 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.
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, "Hard-work Hard-work and Hard-work." Metha said.
Short speeches were also delivered by Sachin Jaiswal DC Dimapur, Abhinav Shivam DC Chumoukedima, Dr. Watizulu Susumeren, Vice president All Indian Badminton Association, Rennedy Singh former Captain Indian Football team, and players and supporting staff.
Herato Sukhalu, Vice President NCA delivered the vote of thanks while Ahidur Rahman Jt Secy, NCA chaired the program.
(Vihepu, IA Niuland)
