Nonstop 100-Hour T20 Cricket Marathon Begins in Bhopal for World Record Attempt
In a remarkable display of endurance and spirit, twenty-five cricket teams from eight different states launched a nonstop 100-hour T20 cricket marathon on Sunday at the Police Line Ground in Nehru Nagar, Bhopal. This extraordinary event is part of the National Disabled Cricket Sports Festival titled Not Out @ 100, with the ambitious goal of setting a new world record for continuous cricket play.
Chief Minister Inaugurates Historic Event
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav officially inaugurated the festival amid enthusiastic cheers from approximately 350 players and spectators. The inauguration ceremony featured several symbolic gestures, including the lighting of a ceremonial lamp and floral tributes paid to Bharat Mata. CM Yadav then stepped onto the cricket pitch, donned the tournament cap, and bowled the first ball to commence the opening match between the Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan Orthopaedic Category teams.
In his address, Chief Minister Yadav emphasized that this initiative transcends a mere record attempt. "This isn't just a record attempt—it's a powerful message that determination dissolves limitations when aimed at social upliftment," he declared. He connected the event to the birth centenary of the late social reformer Kushabhau Thakre, highlighting its deeper significance.
Celebrating Divyangjan Sports and National Initiatives
CM Yadav praised Madhya Pradesh's emergence as a hub for Divyangjan (differently-abled) sports, attributing this progress to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's influential shift in terminology from 'Viklang' to 'Divyang'. He stated that this change has been instrumental in instilling greater confidence and willpower among participants. The chief minister also commended the "indomitable spirit" of players like Sangeeta Vishnoi, describing such athletes as "living examples of confidence and courage."
He extended congratulations to the event organizers, the Kushabhau Thakre Trust and the International Public Policy Research Centre, and noted that the festival aligns seamlessly with PM Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' initiative, which advocates for inclusive progress and empowerment across society.
Unprecedented Marathon and Community Support
Event convener Raghavendra Sharma described the 100-hour cricket marathon as a global first, emphasizing its historic nature. "Day or night, these Divyang players will etch history over 100 hours until February 26," he remarked, underscoring the relentless dedication of the participants. Local MLA Bhagwandas Sabnani expressed gratitude to all participants for their involvement and commitment.
The event saw the presence of notable figures including Ajay Jamwal, Rahul Kothari, Ravindra Yati, and numerous players, all gathered to support this groundbreaking endeavor. CM Yadav presented mementoes to the athletes, urging everyone to celebrate this "extraordinary, joyful" feat of endurance and pride.
Key Highlights of the Event
- Duration: A nonstop 100-hour T20 cricket marathon.
- Location: Police Line Ground in Nehru Nagar, Bhopal.
- Participants: Twenty-five teams from eight states, involving 350 players and spectators.
- Objective: To set a world record at the National Disabled Cricket Sports Festival.
- Inauguration: By Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, who bowled the first ball.
- Themes: Social upliftment, determination, and inclusive progress linked to PM Modi's initiatives.
This marathon not only showcases athletic prowess but also serves as a profound statement on overcoming challenges and fostering inclusivity in sports, making it a landmark event in the realm of disabled cricket.
