Chandigarh, Feb 9: The Punjab Government has taken a decisive step toward revitalizing the state’s sports landscape with the approval of the Punjab Cricket League (PCL). Announced by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann following a review meeting with the Department of Sports and Youth Services on Monday, the league is intended to serve as a cornerstone of the government’s campaign to keep the youth away from drugs and focused on disciplined, professional growth.
The Chief Minister mentioned that the PCL will be structured on the successful IPL model, allowing young cricketers to experience professional-grade competition at the regional level. He noted that by involving the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA), the state ensures that the league adheres to the highest standards of the game, providing players with the exposure necessary for national selection.
“This league will help in producing a talented pool of cricketers for national and international level cricket tournaments,” Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann mentioned. He noted that Punjab possesses an abundance of natural athletic talent, and the government is fully committed to providing the infrastructure and opportunities required for these players to win medals at the international level.
During the deliberations in Chandigarh, the Chief Minister emphasized that the government’s vision extends beyond a single sport. He mentioned that the administration is working on a comprehensive plan to organize state-level leagues for Volleyball, Football, Hockey, Basketball, and traditional sports like Kabaddi and Kho-kho. He noted that these multi-sport leagues are essential for reclaiming Punjab’s status as a sporting powerhouse in India.
“Our aim is to ensure that more Punjabi players represent India in international sporting events,” the Chief Minister directly said. He noted that the government is leaving no stone unturned to reconnect the youth with playgrounds and to restore the state’s historical reputation for athletic excellence.
The Chief Minister further mentioned that the PCL would specifically focus on regional pride, with teams representing the iconic regions of Majha, Doaba, and Malwa. He noted that this structure would create a sense of community ownership and encourage local support for emerging athletes. He mentioned that the initiative is not just about entertainment but about building a fit society where sports act as a shield against social evils.
“The state government is committed to reviving Punjab’s glory in sports, and no stone is being left unturned to achieve this goal,” the Chief Minister added. He noted that the collaboration with professional bodies like the BCCI will ensure that the league provides a genuine professional path for the state’s most promising young talent.
