The 29th edition of the Winter Cricket Challenge was formally declared open by Mhathung Yanthan, MLA and Advisor of Agriculture, on 19th December 2024 at the Local Ground in Wokha. The tournament is being organised by the Senior Noble Klan, under the aegis of the Nagaland Cricket Association.
The opening ceremony also witnessed the presence of Vineet Kumar IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Wokha, as the special invitee; and Lansothung Shitiri, RFO of Doyang Beat/Doyang Afforestation Range, Wokha, who was the theme speaker.
In his address, special guest, Mhathung Yanthan, acknowledged the important role of the tournament 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,” emphasising the critical need for environmental protection. The Advisor 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. He praised the organisers for linking the love of cricket with the pressing need for environmental awareness, noting that every effort to protect the environment contributes to the well-being of the planet.
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,” 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.
Highlighting the importance of preserving natural resources, reducing carbon footprints, and promoting sustainable living, he reminded the players that their actions, no matter how small, can have a significant collective impact on the planet. He also pointed out that Nagaland, with its rich biodiversity and natural beauty, is facing environmental challenges such as deforestation, habitat loss, and the impacts of climate change.
Shitiri urged the cricketers to take proactive steps to protect trees, conserve water and energy, reduce plastic waste, and safeguard biodiversity. He stressed that preserving the environment is not only a responsibility but a matter of identity for indigenous communities in Nagaland, where the ties between nature and culture are deeply intertwined. In closing, Shitiri wished the best of luck to the players, teams, and organisers, expressing his hope that the tournament will not only be a success in terms of cricket but also in its efforts to inspire sustainable practices and a greener future for all.
Vineet Kumar, Deputy Commissioner, Wokha, shared his personal love for cricket, mentioning how he grew up playing cricket. He praised the Senior Noble Klan for successfully hosting the tournament all these years and acknowledged that cricket had become an important sport in Nagaland. 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 awareness blood donation. Reflecting on his own journey of becoming a blood donor after the loss of his uncle, he encouraged everyone to consider donating blood as a life-saving act. Dr 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. “Let’s look forward to saving each other,” he said, highlighting the selfless nature of blood donation.
In his welcome address, T. Penthungo Lotha, President of the Senior Noble Klan, extended a warm welcome to the special guests and participants. He emphasized the significance of the Winter Cricket Challenge, noting that it had become a platform for unity, talent, and love for the sport. Lotha also highlighted the success of the tournament in promoting environmental awareness, particularly with its new theme of “Green Cover Drive.” He praised the commitment of the organisers and the support of the district administration for making the event a grand success.
“This tournament is not just about cricket; it’s about creating a better, greener world,” he stated. He also 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 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.
