Himachal Pradesh: Governor’s XI won the Sadbhavna Cricket Cup by defeating Chief Justice’s XI by 32 runs in the final played at BCS here today. Governor’s XI’s Vivek Bhatia and Abid Hussain Sadiq were jointly declared Man of the Series. This tournament was organized by Him Sports and Cultural Association to spread awareness against drug abuse. Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu distributed prizes to the players at the closing ceremony today. Vivek Bhatia won the three matches played between Governor’s XI, Chief Justice, Chief Minister’s XI and Press XI in the tournament. Abid Hussain Sadiq and Vikas Bhardwaj were given the Man of the Match award. In the final match played today, Governor’s XI scored an impressive score of 232 runs for the loss of two wickets in 20 overs. Vivek Bhatia played an unbeaten innings of 99 runs, while Abid Hussain contributed 82 runs. Subhash Rattan and Vikas Bhardwaj took one wicket each from the Chief Justice XI side.
Chasing the target of 233 runs, the Chief Justice XI could score only 200 runs. Rakesh Chauhan scored the highest 86 runs, while Saurabh Rattan scored 43, Pankaj Negi 22 and Anuj Bali scored 18 runs. Ashok of Governor XI ensured victory by taking two wickets. Appreciating the organizers of the program, the Chief Minister said that the state government is committed to tackle the problem of drug addiction and is working with dedication to promote sports and improve opportunities for the youth. The Chief Minister highlighted the steps being taken by the government to help the sportspersons. The Chief Minister said that the cash awards given to those who win medals in the Olympics, Paralympics, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games have been increased significantly. The gold medal winner in the Olympics and Paralympics will now get Rs 5 crore. The Chief Minister further said that the government has increased the diet money for the players and given them better travel facilities. Acting Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court Tarlok Singh Chauhan, Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania, Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, MLAs Harish Janartha, Sudarshan Bablu and Vinod Sultanpuri were also present at the closing ceremony.
