Mahabubnagar, December 22:

Hon’ble Minority Welfare Minister Mohammed Azharuddin today attended the Kaka Venkataswamy Memorial Telangana Inter-District T20 Cricket Tournament programme in Mahabubnagar district as the Chief Guest and emphasised the importance of strengthening grassroots cricket across Telangana.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister said that district-level tournaments play a key role in identifying young talent and providing competitive exposure. He stressed that well-maintained grounds and regular tournaments are essential for producing players capable of representing the state and the country.

The tournament, organised by the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), will be held from December 22, featuring 29 teams and 55 matches across districts of Telangana.

Azharuddin appreciated the efforts of the Mahabubnagar District Cricket Association, district administration, and local leadership, including MLA Jaidender Reddy, for promoting sports at the grassroots level.

He extended his best wishes to the HCA, organisers, and participating teams, and encouraged young players to pursue the game with discipline, dedication, and sportsmanship.

Other dignitaries present included Minister for Transport and BC Welfare Ponnam Prabhakar , Minister for Sports & Youth Services and Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development & Fisheries Venkati Srihari, senior HCA officials, district administrators, and members of the sports fraternity.