Women’s Cricket Match in Patna Promotes Inclusivity and Equal Opportunity

Patna: A women’s cricket match was held today at the Urja Stadium in Patna, organized by the Mahila Imdad Committee, Raj Bhavan. The event, in its second consecutive year, was praised for fostering inclusivity, with plans to expand it further in the future, according to the organization’s president, the First Lady of Bihar, and secretary Dr Poonam Chaudhary.

The match, played between Ashadeep and Indrapuri XI, saw Ashadeep clinch victory. Indrapuri XI, batting first, was bowled out for 54. Nandita top-scored with 11 runs, while Shrey Singh, Shreyanshi, and Tanushi contributed 6, 6, and 4 runs, respectively. Kali Kumari spearheaded Ashadeep’s bowling attack, taking three key wickets, with Neha claiming two and Aradhya picking up one.

Chasing 54, Ashadeep reached the target comfortably in just eight overs. Kali Kumari, who also scored 7 runs, stood out as the match’s all-round performer and was named Woman of the Match. Akshara (6), Neha (5), Rozila Khatun (4), Manisha (5), and Ashika Kumari (4) contributed to Ashadeep’s chase.

First Lady Anagha Rajendra Arlekar extended her best wishes, underscoring her support for the event despite her absence. Her encouragement, organizers noted, elevated the occasion’s significance.

Pooja, secretary of the Mahila Imdad Committee, welcomed attendees, emphasizing that the presence of dignitaries delivered a strong social message about the importance of such initiatives. Mamta Mahrotra, vice president of the committee, highlighted the need for sensitivity towards disabled individuals to integrate them into mainstream society. Treasurer Sadhana Thakur added that the match served as an example of eliminating discrimination and creating equal opportunities for all players.

Joint secretary Usha Jha noted that such events promote harmony and inclusivity, while joint treasurer Usha Jha encouraged participants. Executive members Veena Gupta, Bidhu Rani Binda Singh, Richa, Indu Agarwal, Vinit Kochar, Rita Sinha, and Lily Kishore were also present.

Asha Singh, vice president of the committee, delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the presence of distinguished guests and government representatives as a testament to the importance of such programs.

The event saw active participation from Urja Stadium’s officials, including Rupak Kumar, Nikhilesh Ranjan, and Randhir Kumar, who played key roles in ensuring its success.