“Poonch Premier League 2025 Begins in Spectacular Fashion: A Celebration of Cricket, Character, and Community”

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

POONCH APRIL 11:-With a vision that transcends the boundary lines of a cricket field, the 5th Edition of Poonch Premier League 2025 began with grandeur, energy, and a powerful message at its heart. The tournament was inaugurated in a festive ceremony that brought together athletes, dignitaries, and community members to celebrate not just the love of cricket, but a collective commitment to youth empowerment and national pride.

The event was graced by Chief Guest SSP Poonch Mr. Shafqat Bhat (JKPS), a respected figure known for his proactive efforts in youth development and community engagement. He was accompanied by several Guests of Honour Mr. Mohan Lal Sharma (Additional SP Poonch), Mr. Mohammad Sayed (JKAS) (ACR Poonch), Mr. Khaliq Hussain Choudhary (DySP DAR), Mr. Tariq Khan (Chairman Shaheed Manjit Singh Volleyball Club Poonch), Priyanka Singh (Centre Administrator One Stop Centre Poonch) & Dr Muhammad Waseem Bhat, whose presence added further prestige to the occasion.They were also accompanied by Pervaiz Malik Afridi (Chairmain Rahul Dravid Cricket Club Poonch), Vijay Kumar Sharma (PEM), Pawan Kumar Mannu (PEL), Sayed Imran Hussain Shah (Chairman Khidmat Foundation), Abass Malik (Chairman HHWS) Sated Zakir Hussain Shah, Zamir Sheikh, Ajaz Malik REK, Sajjad Rather REK, Aman Sharma REK, RJ Bashir Broadcaster (State Sport Live) Imtiaz Lone, Syed Talit Waseem (REK) and Er. Kamran Ahmed Qadri (Management PPL).

In his inaugural speech, Mr. Bhat extended his heartfelt congratulations to all participating teams, urging them to play with passion, discipline, and true sportsmanship. He offered special praise to Mr. Pervaiz Malik Afridi, the driving force behind the league, and the entire management team of Poonch Premier League for their extraordinary dedication and vision. Mr. Bhat acknowledged their efforts in organizing such a meaningful tournament, designed not only to promote sports but also to guide the region’s youth away from destructive habits such as drug abuse.

> “This tournament is more than just a game,” Mr. Bhat remarked. “It is a platform for channeling youth energy into constructive activities and for instilling values that shape future leaders.”

What makes this edition of the Poonch Premier League truly unique is its socially conscious theme. Centered around national initiatives like *”Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan” (Drug-Free India Campaign), “My Youth My Pride”, “Say No to Drugs, Yes to Sports”, and “Clean India, Green India”,* the league is rooted in the belief that sports can serve as a catalyst for positive change.

The tournament organised by Rahul Dravid Cricket Club, Poonch Youth and Khidmat Foundation in the collaboration with Civil Administration Poonch, J&K Police District Poonch, Indian Army, Department of Youth Services and Sports and Sports Council.

Each match, each inning, and each player becomes a symbol of the larger mission — to fight against the growing menace of drug addiction and to encourage a lifestyle of discipline, health, and environmental responsibility.

In a deeply moving gesture, the tournament has been dedicated to the memory of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Mr. Bhat praised this tribute, calling it a “touching reminder of the courage and commitment that defines our armed forces.” He added that such efforts not only honor the fallen heroes but also educate the youth about patriotism, sacrifice, and duty toward the nation.

Following his address, Mr. Bhat personally interacted with the players and shared words of encouragement. He urged them to treat each game as an opportunity to learn and grow—not just as athletes, but as individuals. He highlighted how such tournaments help young people develop leadership qualities, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving skills — all essential traits for success in life.

> “Sports build more than just muscles—they build character,” he emphasized. “Whether you win or lose, play with integrity and pride. That’s what true sportsmanship is all about.”

The community of Poonch responded with overwhelming enthusiasm and support. Local residents, youth groups, and families filled the stadium, cheering for their favorite teams and expressing pride in the values the tournament promotes. For many, the league is not just entertainment—it’s a movement that unites the region around shared goals and dreams.

As the tournament unfolds over the coming weeks, it promises a thrilling series of matches showcasing talent, determination, and unity. But more importantly, the Poonch Premier League 2025 stands as a beacon of hope—a shining example of how sports can inspire change, bring communities together, and shape a brighter future for the next generation.

With every boundary scored and every wicket taken, PPL 2025 continues to echo a message that resonates far and wide:
“Let’s play for pride, for progress, and for the promise of a better tomorrow.”