To celebrate the 25th anniversary of Bangladesh’s Test status, organizers held a vibrant daylong Under-12 Cricket Festival in Cox’s Bazar on Monday. The event took place at the Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin Indoor Stadium, jointly organized by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the Cox’s Bazar District Sports Association.

Ten U-12 teams from across Cox’s Bazar participated in the spirited competition. Amid cheers and a festive atmosphere, the Cox’s Bazar Cricket Academy clinched the championship title.

The event drew the presence of sports officials, local administration representatives, and cricket enthusiasts. District cricket coach Ashraful Aziz Sujan, along with sports association members Sarwar Rumon and Mohammad Hossain, praised the initiative, calling it a vital step in grassroots cricket development.

“This kind of event not only nurtures children’s interest in the game but also lays the foundation for building future cricketers,” they said.

The festival featured more than just matches—it included motivational speeches, art competitions, and engaging activities that brought energy and meaning to the celebration. Local sports lovers welcomed the BCB’s initiative, applauding its role in inspiring the next generation of cricketers.

By Abdur Rashid Manik

Photo: Abdur Rashid Manik