Diplomat Correspondent
Poonch(Mendhar) DD, The Mendhar Fest Cricket Tournament unfolded as a vibrant continuation of the Mendhar Sports Festival, embodying the region’s commitment to promoting athletic excellence and community cohesion. Organised by the Mendhar Battalion of the Bhimber Gali Brigade under the “Building Strength, Building Character” banner, the tournament attracted a diverse array of teams from local schools, government departments and clubs, all eager to showcase their talent on the well‑prepared OP Hill Stadium. The event, held in early December, served as a lively platform for youth to engage in healthy competition while fostering a spirit of unity and pride across Mendhar.
The ceremony was graced by a distinguished guest who took the opportunity to interact with players and spectators alike. In an inspiring address, he praised the dedication of the athletes, encouraged them to pursue excellence both on and off the field, and highlighted the role of sport as a catalyst for personal growth and social harmony. His words resonated throughout the stadium, energising the crowd and reinforcing the festival’s objective of nurturing character through sporting endeavour.
Emphasising the broader significance of physical activity, the chief guest and organisers underscored how regular participation in sports cultivates discipline, teamwork and resilience, that translate into everyday life. By providing a structured environment for young people to challenge themselves, the tournament aims to instill a lifelong appreciation for health and teamwork, ultimately contributing to the holistic development of the community.
The opening match between Kotan XI and Mendhar Club set an exciting tone for the competition. Kotan XI were dismissed for a modest total, but Mendhar Club responded with a confident chase, thanks to a solid opening partnership that set the tone for the innings. While Kotan’s top scorer contributed a steady effort, it was Mendhar Club’s composed performance that secured a convincing victory, earning them a place in the semi‑finals and demonstrating the high level of skill present in the tournament.
Teams such as BHSS Mendhar, GDC Mendhar, Kotan XI, Mendhar Club, PWD (R & B) and Eklavya Model Residential School arrived after weeks of rigorous practice, each displaying dedication and a desire to claim the trophy. The success of the cricketing spectacle will be followed by the Mendhar Marathon and culminate in a grand finale featuring cultural performances, prize distribution and an ex‑SM meet, promising a memorable celebration of unity, health and youth empowerment in Mendhar.DD
