A 20-day short pitch cricket tournament was inaugurated on Saturday at the Dr. Enayet Karim School and College playground in Wazirpur upazila of Barishal district.
Dr. Enayet Karim, President of the Global Development Bank and Asian Chapter President of the United Nations World Council for Indigenous Games (UN-WCIG), inaugurated the tournament as the Chief Guest.
A total of 22 teams from across the district will participate. Day-night matches will begin on December 10, with the final scheduled for December 30.
The tournament aims to curb drug use in society, particularly among youths.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr. Karim highlighted that sports, through structured programs, serve as an effective tool to prevent drug abuse. He noted that participating in sports builds resilience, improves mental health, and creates a positive environment that discourages substance use.
“Team sports foster social connections and communication skills, providing a supportive network and access to positive role models, such as coaches and senior athletes, who can guide young people toward healthy lifestyles,” he added.
Local political leaders, teachers, students, cricket players, and sports enthusiasts attended the event.
National cricket players are expected to attend the final match to present trophies and prize money to the winning and runner-up teams, said Abdul Halim Khabir Mridha, chairman of the organizing committee.