MANDI:Himachal Pradesh is set to host its largest-ever cricket league, launching on November 15 under the aegis of Samman & Salaam Foundation.
The league, spanning three months, will bring together 32 teams from across the state. With an entry fee of Rs 21,000 per team, participants will compete for top prizes of Rs 21 lakh for the winning team, Rs 11 lakh for the runner-up and Rs 5 lakh for the third-place finisher.
The Player of the Series will also be awarded Rs 5 lakh.
Vivek Kumar Jha, founder of the Samman & Salaam Foundation, shared the details following a preparatory meeting held at Hotel Neelam in 7 Miles.
According to Jha, each team will play a minimum of four to five matches, with matches being held at district-level grounds. Selected district-level teams will play their final rounds at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala.
Teams interested in participating must submit their applications by November 8. Forms are available at the foundation’s office in Sundernagar, or teams can contact the foundation via mobile at 7807622422 or by emailing wessfindia@gmail.com.
Should more than 32 teams apply, a selection process will determine the final lineup, with entry fees collected post-selection. Additionally, 24 standout players will be selected for special coaching sessions in Delhi and Gurgaon, providing an opportunity for professional training.
In a unique initiative, 10 per cent of the total funds collected from the league will be donated to support the families of martyrs. Jha emphasised that proceeds will go towards welfare programs for the families of fallen soldiers.
In addition, the league will allocate funds as follows: Rs 10 lakh to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund, Rs 10 lakh to police welfare fund, Rs 5 lakh to the HPCA and Rs 5 lakh to the NCC.
Samman & Salaam Foundation has been dedicated to honoring the families of martyrs and has already held seven events, recognising and supporting 171 families of fallen soldiers.
The announcement was made in the presence of key organisers Hem Raj Sharma, Raku Walia, Amit Bhatia and Jagdish Kumar.
