Aadil Abdullah
Bandipora, 01 Mar: The Gurez Premier League (GPL) 2025 concluded with resounding enthusiasm amidst a picturesque, snow-covered field at the Dawar sports ground in the Gurez Valley of Bandipora district. The highly anticipated final match witnessed a massive turnout of over 500 locals, including women, girls, children, and youth, who passionately supported and cheered for both competing teams.
Batting first, Markoot managed to score 91 runs. However, their efforts were overshadowed by a dominant Dawar team, which comfortably chased down the target, securing victory by eight wickets.
The match featured several standout performances. Irfan’s brilliant innings of 46 runs earned him the “Man of the Match” title, along with a cash prize of ₹1,000. The tournament also recognized exceptional talent in various categories.
Parvez Shrikh was awarded “Best Bowler of the Tournament” for his impressive haul of 10 wickets and received a cash prize of ₹3,000. Parvez Ahmed showcased his batting prowess, scoring 106 runs throughout the tournament, which earned him the “Best Batsman” award and a cash prize of ₹3,000. Further cementing his dominance, Parvez Ahmed was also declared “Man of the Series” for his combined performance of 106 runs and five wickets, receiving an additional ₹3,000.
Ultimately, the Dawar team emerged as the champions of GPL 2025, claiming the coveted trophy along with a cash prize of ₹25,000.
The closing ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Brigadier C. Bharathan, SC, Commander 109 Infantry Brigade; Miss Mehak Mehboob, Judge Munsif; Colonel Ganesh Singh Pokhariya, Commanding Officer 16 Assam; and Mr. Mukhtar Ahmed, SDM Gurez.
Speaking on the occasion, the chief guests commended the organizers for successfully hosting the tournament and lauded the sportsmanship displayed by the participating teams. They emphasized the importance of such events in fostering community bonding and promoting healthy lifestyles among the youth of Gurez Valley, particularly during the winter months in the snowbound region. The dignitaries also highlighted the potential of the region’s youth in sports and assured their continued support for such initiatives.
Speaking to the media, locals emphasized the significance of the GPL, stating that the tournament is organized annually during winter to engage the youth of the region, as Gurez Valley remains cut off from the district headquarters, confining residents to their homes.
“The main aim of these tournaments is to keep our youth away from drug addiction and engage them in sports activities,” they said, expressing gratitude towards the Indian Army for its organizational support and assistance. “The Army is providing us with everything we need, and we are deeply thankful to them.”
Another local resident highlighted the potential of Gurez Valley for winter sports, urging the district administration to take action. “Gurez Valley has great potential for winter sports, but the district administration is not taking it seriously,” the resident said. “We urge them to initiate winter sports activities in Gurez Valley, as it will not only benefit the people but also create job opportunities for the youth and help them secure their livelihoods.”
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