Morung Express News
Wokha | December 19
The 29th edition of the Winter Cricket Challenge kicked off today at the local ground in Wokha, under the aegis of the Nagaland Cricket Association. Organised by the Senior Noble Klan, the tournament is being held under the theme “Green Cover Drive.”
The event saw the presence of distinguished guests, including Mhathung Yanthan, MLA and Advisor to the Department of Agriculture, Government of Nagaland, as the special guest; Vineet Kumar, Deputy Commissioner of Wokha, as the special invitee; and Lansothung Shitiri, RFO of Doyang Beat/Doyang Afforestation Range, Wokha, theme speaker.
Mhathung Yanthan, in his address, expressed his enthusiasm for the tournament and its role in promoting cricket in Nagaland.
He highlighted the tournament’s significance, stating that it has played an important part in uniting people, discovering talent, and fostering a shared love for the sport over the years. Reflecting on the past, Yanthan recalled the early days when cricket was not widely popular in the region, but how, through initiatives like the Winter Cricket Challenge, it has grown and gained recognition.
He also lauded the theme of the tournament, “Green Cover Drive,” emphasizing the critical need for environmental protection. Yanthan shared his concerns about the loss of greenery in the region, pointing out that areas that were once lush with teak forests are now reduced to barren lands.
Yanthan encouraged the players to view the tournament not only as a competition but as an opportunity to showcase their talent, work as a team, and inspire others through dedication both on and off the field.
Lansothung Shitiri, the theme speaker, brought a thought-provoking perspective to the gathering, urging the cricketers to consider the broader challenge beyond the game – the challenge of protecting the environment. Shitiri emphasised the importance of “Green Cover Drive,” the tournament’s theme, and explained that it goes beyond simply playing a sport. He urged the participants to apply the same teamwork, strategy, and skill they use in cricket to drive positive environmental change.
Vineet Kumar, Deputy Commissioner, Wokha, shared his personal love for cricket, mentioning how he grew up playing cricket.
He emphasized the need for early talent identification and better infrastructure for the sport, such as developing year-round cricket pitches. He also encouraged the promotion of women’s cricket, highlighting the potential of local girls in the region. “There is great potential here in Nagaland, and with the right opportunities, our players can make it to national and even international levels,” he said.
Dr. Thungdemo Kyong, Chief of Team Metamorphosis, spoke on the Awareness blood donation. Kyong shared his personal experience of donating blood 26 times and dispelled myths about the health risks associated with blood donation. He urged the crowd to view blood donation as an opportunity to save lives and improve overall health.
In his welcome address, T. Penthungo Lotha, President of the Senior Noble Klan highlighted that since its inception, the Winter Cricket Challenge has been more than just a sporting event. It has consistently included social awareness initiatives, such as its earlier HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns and now decided to shift the focus to environmental issues, aligning the tournament with the global fight against climate change.
This year, participants are encouraged to contribute to a greener future by promoting environmental conservation, with the tournament’s theme being inspired by the graceful cricketing shot, the “Green Cover Drive.”
The formal declaration of the 29th Winter Cricket Challenge was made by Mhathung Yanthan, marking the beginning of the tournament.
The ceremony was chaired by Leonard Mozhüi, Assistant Professor of English at Bailey Baptist College, and the invocation was delivered by Benathung Mozhüi, Associate Youth Director of Wokha Town Baptist Church. Lirhoni Z Lotha mesmerised the audience with a special musical number, while Khyolamo Humtsoe, Organising Secretary of the Senior Noble Klan, delivered the vote of thanks.
