The Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA) hosted its 2nd Achiever’s Night 2024 at the Town Hall, Zone Niathu, celebrating the outstanding performances of cricketers across various categories. The event, held on Saturday evening, brought together prominent figures, athletes, and supporters of cricket in Nagaland.
In his address, Special Guest Kvulo Lorin, Chairman of NIDC, Government of Nagaland, and Director of Tetso College, commended the significant progress made in cricket within the state. He acknowledged the hard work and dedication that have gone into building a foundation for the sport, highlighting the pivotal role of Nagaland’s Chief Minister and Chief Patron of the Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA), Neiphiu Rio.
“At a time when we did not even have a single cricket ground, there were challenges and controversies surrounding the promotion of the sport. But look where you are today,” Lorin said, emphasizing the state’s achievement of now having three cricket grounds. “You are not only practicing on these grounds but also setting up more, with Nagaland’s teams making a mark at the national level in various categories.”
Lorin praised the efforts of women cricketers and noted the financial opportunities that cricket offers. He also expressed his gratitude to the parents of young athletes, acknowledging that Nagaland traditionally lacks a culture of viewing sports as a professional career. “We are not accustomed to seeing sports as a viable career option because of the lack of financial backing. However, with the BCCI’s resources, and by extension, the NCA’s, you have the potential to lead the way for other sports associations in the state.”
Reflecting on the NCA’s inception, Lorin admitted that no one could have envisioned its success. “When the NCA was first formed, no one thought it would reach this point. Today, Nagaland has the potential to produce cricket stars who could one day represent the country.”
Lorin shared his personal reflections, expressing a desire that similar opportunities had been available during his youth. “We didn’t have cricket grounds or even the idea of playing cricket. But today, times have changed, and you have a clear path ahead.”
He concluded by urging the young cricketers to focus on the future. Citing an example of top tennis legend Roger Federer, Lorin explained how success comes from focusing on the next move rather than dwelling on past mistakes. “Federer once confessed that in a match, he succeeded in only 56% of his shots, but he converted those into 80% of his points. He failed 44% of the time, but he focused on the next shot. That’s what you need to do. Nagaland is still in its infancy when it comes to sports, so Keep moving forward with confidence.”
Photo: Aloto Sumi, Emerging Player, No. 4 All India Highest Wicket Taker in Vijay Merchant Trophy Season 2023-2024 (PC: Kenei Chadi)
Lorin expressed hope that sports infrastructure and facilities in Nagaland would continue to improve and be well-maintained across all districts. He encouraged the cricketers to change their mindset and embrace sports as a viable career option.
Hyunilo Anilo Khing, Secretary of the Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA), in his opening remarks, highlighted the achievements of the NCA over the past year and expressed optimism about the future of cricket in the state.
“Today, I feel and believe that the NCA is growing horizontally. The association is working to spread the game to all corners of the state, and we have achieved a certain level of success in this endeavor. I would like to thank the District Associations for carrying forward the dreams and aspirations of the State Association,” he said.
Photo: Sentimenla Imsong; First Women Cricketer from NE states to score half century in BCCI Zonal Tournament 2023-2024 (PC: Kenei Chadi)
He highlighted the achievements since the 2018-19 season, noting, “We have been participating in all BCCI tournaments. Last year, the men’s team took part in 15 tournaments, playing matches across India, while our women’s team participated in seven formats, playing several matches each. Today, we have 120 cricketers, both men and women, playing professionally. As cricketers of the state, you are all ambassadors of Nagaland.”
With the commencement of the new 2024-25 season, Khing challenged the players to bring more glory to the state. “Help us organize bigger achievers’ nights and enable the association to give you the right recognition for your talents and skills. We are celebrating last season’s success, our sixth season, and during this period, we have managed to bring trophies home.”
He also congratulated the Under-23 men’s team and the Under-19 boys’ team for winning their first-ever trophies. “Let this success be a springboard for further achievements. Cricket, though not as popular in the Northeast or the state, is a platform where we can contribute to the nation and state-building process.”
Khing emphasized the economic impact of cricket in Nagaland, stating, “Today, 120 players are earning their match fees, which are directly transferred to their accounts by the BCCI. The Cricketers are contributing around ₹2.5 to ₹3 crores annually to the state economy. Earning from something you love is immensely satisfying.” He said “Have you ever thought that each of you, players are contributing towards the state economy.”
He concluded by encouraging the players to promote the game and uphold their conduct on and off the field. “As professionals and spokespersons for cricket, people are watching you. Don’t let negativity overshadow the sport. I have full confidence that as a team, we will achieve even more.”
Photo: Neizekho Rupreo, All India Top 1 Ranking Wicket Taker in Col. CK Nayadu Trophy Season 2023-24. 47 Wickets (PC: Kenei Chadi)
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The event also included a special felicitation of guests, followed by individual awards given to exceptional players. The first set of awards included the following categories:
U-15 Girl’s Best Batter, Bowler, Wicketkeeper
U-16 Boys Best Batter, Bowler, Wicketkeeper
Women’s U-19 Best Batter, Bowler
Men’s U-19 Best Batter, Bowler, Wicketkeeper
A special performance by Tinaliu (Titi) added a cultural touch to the event, bringing cheer to the audience.
The second set of awards recognized achievements in the following categories:
Women’s U-23 Best Batter, Bowler, Wicketkeeper
Men’s U-23 Best Batter, Bowler, Wicketkeeper
Senior Women’s Best Batter, Bowler, Wicketkeeper
Senior Men’s Best Batter, Bowler, Team’s & Individual Achievements were awarded respectively.
The program was hosted by Dr. Nitin Agarwal, member of the Cricket Advisory Sub-Committee of the Nagaland Cricket Association. The evening began with a thanksgiving and invocation prayer led by Moa Aier, missionary GCYM.
The night concluded with Benjamin Merry, Member of the Cricket Advisory Sub-Committee of the Nagaland Cricket Association, expressing words of gratitude to all participants, attendees, and organizers.
