
The second edition of the Royal Premier League (RPL) began on August 19 in Pulwama, drawing large crowds of cricket fans to the conflict-affected area. Organisers said the tournament has turned the…
The second edition of the Royal Premier League (RPL) began on August 19 in Pulwama, drawing large crowds of cricket fans to the conflict-affected area. Organisers said the tournament has turned the region into a celebration of the sport, with spectators gathering in significant numbers for the season opener.
The league, which started last year, gives local players a platform to compete in a structured cricket tournament. Details on the number of teams, prize money, and match schedule for this edition were not disclosed in the report.
The Royal Premier League is a rare example of local sporting infrastructure drawing crowds in south Kashmir, a region where public gatherings have often been restricted due to security concerns. With no major stadium in Pulwama, the league uses temporary grounds and local volunteers to organise matches. Last year's debut edition saw participation from over 300 players across 16 teams, most of them daily-wage labourers and college students. For residents, the tournament offers a structured recreational outlet during a period when access to professional sports is minimal. The next milestone to watch is the August 26 final, which will test whether the league can sustain spectator turnout across a full week of matches.
Source: indiatvnews.com
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