SRINAGAR, April 13, 2025 – The Dalgate Sports Club ignited excitement across the Valley with the grand launch of Kashmir Cup Season 3, marked by a historic auction featuring over 800 players at the TRC Ground in Srinagar. Prominent figures Dr. Touseef Ahmed Bhat and football icon Sajid Yousuf Dar unveiled the glittering Kashmir Cup trophy, hailing the tournament as a “beacon of hope” for Kashmiri youth and a powerful platform to fight drug abuse.
The auction, a first-of-its-kind for the region, saw enthusiastic bidding for talented cricketers from across Jammu and Kashmir, showcasing the depth of sporting potential in the Valley. Organized by the Dalgate Sports Club, the event drew hundreds of spectators, including young athletes, coaches, and community leaders, all united in their passion for cricket and social change. The tournament, set to feature 16 teams, promises thrilling matches while promoting youth engagement and healthy competition.
Dr. Touseef Ahmed, a noted social activist and educationist, emphasized the event’s dual mission. “Kashmir Cup is more than a cricket tournament—it’s a movement to channel the energy of our youth toward sports and away from the menace of drugs,” he said. Sajid Yousuf, the only international football coach from Jammu and Kashmir, echoed this sentiment, calling the initiative a vital step to nurture talent and instill discipline. “Sports can transform lives and keep our youth on the right path,” he added, drawing from his own journey as a celebrated athlete from Dalgate.
The launch event featured vibrant cultural performances and motivational speeches, with organizers highlighting the tournament’s role in fostering teamwork, discipline, and community unity. The Kashmir Cup has grown into a symbol of resilience, offering a platform for local talent to shine while addressing pressing social issues like substance abuse. Special awareness campaigns during the event underscored the message: “Say no to drugs, yes to sports.”
With matches slated to begin soon, the Dalgate Sports Club has ensured top-notch facilities and security arrangements to make Season 3 a landmark success. The tournament not only aims to unearth cricketing gems but also to inspire a generation to embrace a healthier, drug-free lifestyle.