Nagaland: Unity Cup friendly cricket match to be held in Dimapur on Jan 18

Dimapur is set to host the first-ever Unity Cup under the banner “Torch of Unity”, a friendly torch cricket match aimed at promoting unity and sportsmanship among communities on January 18 at DDSC Stadium, Dimapur.
Briefing the media on Tuesday at Hotel Ornate, Linguistic Minority Forum of Nagaland (LMFN) chairman, Bishnu Bhattacharjee informed that the exhibition match will be played between Team Hornbill and Team Tragopan in a 15-over format, with 15 players on each side. The match will commence at 12:00 noon, followed by the prize distribution ceremony at 3:00 pm. Entry to the event will be free of cost. He also said that traditional cultural presentations from both communities will be showcased between innings to highlight their cultural identities.
The Unity Cup is being organised by the Linguistic Minority Forum of Nagaland and the United Circle of Nagaland, in association with the Tennis Ball Cricket Association of Nagaland (TBCAN). Bhattacharjee said the initiative seeks to bring together players and supporters from diverse communities in Dimapur, using sports as a powerful platform to promote peace, mutual respect and communal harmony. He added that the event is expected to attract thousands of spectators and will reflect that Dimapur in particular and Nagaland as a whole, remains free from division and discrimination, upholding the spirit of secularism where people from different communities, including non-Nagas, live in harmony.
Speaking on the occasion, United Circle of Nagaland president Thungti S Chollen highlighted the theme of unity through sports, stating that players from varied backgrounds, including Naga locals and non-Naga minority communities, will share the same field, symbolising brotherhood and healthy competition. He noted that the event is especially aimed at inspiring youth by demonstrating how sports can serve as a bridge for unity and mutual understanding. Earlier, programme coordinator Ekonthung Lotha said that the Unity Cup is envisioned as a celebration of togetherness in diversity, reinforcing the message that harmony and friendship can be strengthened through positive sporting engagement.
For registration of players one can contact at 9089202599 or 8258985676.
The organisers mentioned that DC Dimapur, Tinojongshi Chang will grace the closing ceremony as special guest.