A new chapter in rural sports history unfolded as Dhingtania village in Sirsa district hosted its first-ever women’s leather cricket village tournament.
The event, organised by the village panchayat, was a significant step toward gender equality in sports, with four teams — Fefana, Parlika, Sherda, and Dhingtania — competing for glory. The tournament concluded with Rajasthan’s Fefana team defeating Parlika to clinch the title.
The Tau Devi Lal stadium in Dhingtania came alive with excitement as spectators from far and wide gathered to witness young women play cricket with remarkable enthusiasm and skill. This was the first time many in the area saw village girls compete in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
Rakesh Nyol, village sarpanch, who spearheaded the initiative, said, “Women are proving their worth in every field, from education to sports. It’s time society closes the gender gap in opportunities.” He emphasised that success in sports requires determination and hard work, more than just access to resources. Nyol also encouraged the participating girls to pursue their passion despite challenges, inspiring them to aim higher.
The tournament saw immense support from local women, including Sunita Saharan and Lichhma Bhakar, who played key roles in organising the event and ensuring its success. The community’s enthusiasm was evident as villagers cheered for the players and rewarded them generously for their efforts.
The sarpanch said Rs 30 lakh had been invested in developing the stadium, which now boasts facilities like cricket and kabaddi grounds, a volleyball court, an athletics track and a pavilion. However, Nyol acknowledged the need for additional amenities, such as more washrooms, and promised swift action to address these issues. Nyol also announced plans for a kabaddi tournament, ensuring equal opportunities for women in upcoming events.
One of the tournament’s highlights was Kanchan, an 11th-grade student from Dhingtania, who expressed her passion for cricket. “I learned the game by watching my brother play,” she said. “My dream is to represent my state and make my village proud.”
Chanan Ram, elementary teacher from the village said the tournament was more than just a sporting event; it was a celebration of progress and empowerment. The overwhelming participation and support from the community mark a promising beginning for women’s sports in the region.
Panchayat members Rakesh Tanwar, Sunil Nandewal, Raj Kumar Bhambhu, Om Prakash Saharan and Devi Lal said organising the women’s cricket tournament aimed to support women’s physical and mental development and give them equal opportunities as men. They added that such events would continue to be organised with the collective efforts of the panchayat.
