CM inaugurates Sovima Cricket Ground

October 9, 2021 121 Views No Comment

Says, Nagaland ready to host national and international matches

Staff Reporter DIMAPUR, OCT 9 (NPN) :State chief minister, Neiphiu Rio inaugurated Sovima Cricket Ground (SCG) at Sovima here on Friday.

Speaking at the inaugural programme, Rio stated that he was delighted to be inaugurating the second cricket ground at Sovima village. He said it was a proud privilege that many dignitaries, friends of six North Eastern states representing North East Cricket Development Committee (NECDC), had joined the inaugural programme. The chief minister also disclosed that the third Cricket ground would be ready within one year at Sovima and maintained the state could host any national and international tournaments.

Asserting that it has been a long struggle and history for North East region particularly Nagaland in the field of sports, Rio recalled that Nagaland Olympic Association (NOA) was recognized only in 2004 after 41 years of statehood.

The chief minister lamented that due to non-recognition of NOA, players from the state could not participate in any national events and had to represent other states and companies.

He also said that the state did not get affiliation to Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

However, the chief minister said that laying of foundation stone for the Nagaland Cricket Stadium by the then BCCI president Sharad Pawar encouraged the association, which ultimately led to the formation of NECDC comprising of Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, and Sikkim.

In this regard, Rio acknowledged NECDC for remembering those who had struggled for the cause. “We get courage and achieve because of collective efforts and unity,” he stated.

Further, the chief minister assured to extend continuous support towards Nagaland Cricket Association, adding that they would collectively work together as NECDC. He expressed hope that they can achieve bigger dreams together. “The old is gone, and the young brigade has taken over,” Rio said.

Mentioning the achievements of Jonathan Rongsen, who played at English County Cricket, Khrievitso Kense, who was picked by Mumbai Indians as supporting player, and U19 Nagaland team, the chief minister hoped that such stories would encourage and motivate young players to aim for higher and bigger goals.

Asserting Nagas were very emotional, gets excited very quickly and did not maintain consistency, the chief minister has, therefore, urged the youth to be consistent and persuasive with determination so professionalism could be exerted and bring laurels to the state and nation.

Also, delivering a speech, advisor to CM and member secretary NECDC, Abu Metha, stated that the inauguration of SCG was a great day in the history of Cricket not only for Nagaland, but for the Cricket journey of the nation.

He also acknowledged chief minister’s support and role in the development of cricket in the state.

Earlier, Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA) president Kechangulie Rio delivered the welcome address. The programme was chaired by NCA secretary Hyunilo Anilo Khing, invocation and dedicatory prayer was delivered by associate pastor Sovima CRC, Zhau Sanchu, and special number was presented by Vibeizonuo Rupreo.

Short speeches were also delivered by Sovima village council chairman, Sebastian Zumvü, and members of NECDC.

Minister Tongpang Ozükum, advisor Mmhonlumo Kikon, advisor Tovihoto Ayemi, advisor Zhaleo Rio, commissioner of police Dimapur Rhothihu Tetseo, DC Dimapur Rajesh Soundararajan and Er. Picto, MLA, accompanied the chief minister.

It may be mentioned be noted that players from Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, and Sikkim, also attended the inaugural programme.

Source: http://www.nagalandpost.com/cm-inaugurates-sovima-cricket-ground/241947.html