Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

Slum youth on a sporting wicket

HYDERABAD: It lacked the glitz and glamour associated with big sporting occasions. But ‘Yuva Satta 2008’ turned out to be the biggest event of their lives for the youth from slums.

Sponsored by the Hyderabad Cricket Association, the 20-20 cricket tournament exclusively for those from disadvantaged communities was inaugurated on Friday at Osmania University.

Organised by the Association for Promoting Social Action (APSA), a NGO, the tourney will provide an opportunity to 300 talented youngsters from 24 city slums to showcase their cricketing talent over the next six days. It is APSA’s effort to provide a chance for them to exhibit their skills nurtured over the years in narrow lanes.

“Participating in a tournament designed exclusively for them will give a big boost to their self-esteem”, said Basavaraj, APSA coordinator, who conceptualised it. “It will also keep them from turning to drugs and alcohol”, he added, underlying the importance of weaning them away from crime.

“In every city, crime statistics are the highest for youth between the age of 15 and 21. It is important to give these people positive opportunities to channelise their energies. This can promote social harmony, build leadership qualities and promote youth power in a positive way. Who knows, we might even identify a Budhiya!”, said P. Lakshapathy, APSA Executive Director, at the inauguration.

The organisers plan to hold the prize-distribution ceremony after the final on April 30.

Friday’s results: Rasoolpura bt Nagamiahkunta by eight wickets,Valmikinagar-I bt Chintalbasti by two wickets, Kavadiguda bt Valmikinagar-II by five wickets.

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