The Boys’ U16 Inter-District (Multi-Days) Tournament 2024 organized by the Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA) concluded on Thursday with Niuland and Kohima districts securing the championship and runners-up titles respectively. Mokokchung finished third.
The tournament, held over multiple days, featured some of the most promising young cricketers, highlighting the future of cricket in Nagaland. The final round of the tournament featured the top three districts, played from 1 to 10 July at Sovima Cricket Ground, Chumoukedima. The preliminary round was played earlier in Peren, Kohima, and Mokokchung.
The three teams played against each other in a round-robin format in the final round. However, the Mokokchung-Kohima match was abandoned due to rain. The second match played between Kohima and Niuland ended in a draw. In the third match, Niuland scored 85/10 (47.4 overs) and 89/10 (31 overs) while Mokokchung scored 72/10 (72/10 (4.4 overs) and 47/10 929.4 overs). Niuland won the match by 55 runs.
Individual Achievements:
Player of the Tournament: Salangdangba Longkumer (Mokokchung U-16) – Salangdangba Longkumer was a standout performer, scoring 216 runs and taking 12 wickets in 6 innings. His all-round capabilities were pivotal for Mokokchung U-16.
Best Batsman: Salangdangba Longkumer (Mokokchung U-16) – With 216 runs in 6 innings, Salangdangba demonstrated consistent batting prowess, earning the title of Best Batsman.
Best Bowler: Amongti Longkumer (Mokokchung U-16) – Amongti Longkumer’s exceptional bowling, resulting in 26 wickets in 6 innings, made him the tournament’s Best Bowler.
“The growth of cricket in Nagaland has been remarkable, with increasing participation and rising standards of play. This tournament is a testament to the region’s commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering a competitive spirit in the sport. The future of cricket in Nagaland looks promising, with a solid foundation being laid for upcoming generations,” the Nagaland Cricket Association said in a statement.