The Seniors Master League 2023-2024, a highly anticipated cricket tournament, is poised to commence from November 4, fostering the spirit of “One vision, one community”. In a press conference held at the Nagaland Cricket Academy, Sovima on Monday, secretary, organizing committee, CK Mech, expressed that the tournament is to be held as a tribute to the pioneers of Nagaland cricket who laid its foundation. He emphasized that many talented players in earlier times lacked opportunities to represent their districts or the state.
He informed that the tournament is being organized under the aegis of Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA), and will be played at Nagaland Cricket Stadium and Sovima Cricket Ground.
Mech extended gratitude to NCA for its unwavering support, acknowledging the association as the bedrock of this initiative.
He highlighted that while the maiden endeavour had enlisted to six teams, two each from Dimapur, Chümoukedima and Kohima, he pointed out that it served as a trial run, further expressing hope to have teams from all districts for the second edition.
Meanwhile, finance secretary, organizing committee, Imtisungba Aier, informed that matches were slated exclusively for Saturdays and Sundays, with the schedule consisting of two matches on Saturdays and one on Sundays, culminating in a total of 31 league matches.
He informed that the tournament, designed for players aged 35 and above, would adopt the T20 format with white balls, with all umpires officiating the matches certified by NCA, under BCCI guidelines, ensuring standard of expertise and fairness throughout the tournament.
It may be noted that the tournament would feature participation from various sectors of society, including politicians, police officers, bureaucrats, entrepreneurs, and government officials. The press briefing was also attended by honorary secretary, NCA, Hyunilo Anilo Khing.