Dignitaries and others during the inaugural function on January 22. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | January 22
The Gold Cup 50-Ball Cricket Tournament (Six-a-side, Tennis Ball) organised by Nepali Baptist Church (NBC), Kohima, was formally inaugurated on Thursday at Rüzhükhrie Government Higher Secondary School Ground, Kohima.
Altogether, 18 teams are competing in the tournament, which aims to promote fellowship, sportsmanship, and community bonding among church youth.
The tournament is being played in commemoration of the yearlong Golden jubilee celebration of NBC Kohima, which is scheduled to be celebrated from July 31 to August 2.
Rev N Suhuto Chishi, Youth Secretary of Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), graced the occasion as the special guest.
In his address, Rev Chishi highlighted the importance of sports ministry in nurturing discipline, consistency, and unity among youth.
He shared insights from his experience in sports development, including football D License training, and encouraged churches to actively engage youth through sports.
Drawing a parallel between sports and life, Rev Chishi said that life is like a fixed-overs match where every moment counts. Quoting James 4:14, he reminded participants that while a cricket ball can be changed during a game, life is given only once, with a God-given purpose. He urged players to remain steady, endure challenges with consistency, and seek God as the ultimate healer from tension and anxiety.
He further emphasized teamwork over individualism, stating that every player matters in the game of life, and likened God to an umpire who watches over all from heaven. He called upon the youth to remain within the mercies of God and not “run out” spiritually.
The opening ceremony compered by Sanjana Limbu commenced with scripture reading and invocation by Pastor of NBCK Jack Thapa. The welcome address was delivered by Golden Jubilee Sports Committee Convener Narayan Bahadur while a special musical number by Sarmistra Pandey enthralled the gathering.
Meanwhile, Gorkha Public Panchayat Kohima president Santu Thapa will grace the valedictory function as the special guest on January 24 at 2:00 PM.
