Sports News | Say No to Drugs, Yes to Cricket: Punjab Street Premier League Launches Slogan in Chandigarh with Mission to Transform Youth

Chandigarh (Punjab) [India], June 24 (ANI): The Punjab Street Premier League (PSPL), a unique initiative that merges grassroots tennis ball cricket with a powerful anti-drug social mission, was officially launched on Tuesday (June 24) in Chandigarh.

The Punjab Street Premier League (PSPL) 's grand launch in Chandigarh was graced by League Commissioner Yograj Singh and former Indian cricketer and Chief Selector Sunil Joshi.

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Organised by Future Sports Management, PSPL aims to inspire Punjab's youth to say "No to Drugs" and adopt a healthier, more disciplined life through the power of sport.

League Commissioner of PSPL, Yograj Singh said, "Tennis ball cricket is the heartbeat of Indian streets. It teaches reflexes, resilience, and raw instinct -- qualities even international players admire and I'm sure the youth of Punjab will love to play the format."

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VP Singh Bajwa, Director, PSPL T10 said, "PSPL is a clarion call for our youth to reclaim their lives through the discipline and joy of sport. This initiative doesn't just build cricketers, it builds character. In every run scored and every dot ball bowled, I see a step away from addiction and a stride towards a better Punjab."

Sunil Joshi said, "We've gone to the grassroots to unearth raw, fearless talent. The PSPL will help identify and elevate new talents emerging from Punjab's streets and neighbourhoods."

Former Indian cricketers Rishi Dhawan and Manpreet Gony also marked their presence at the occasion, lending their support to this visionary initiative that combines grassroots cricket with a powerful anti-drug social campaign.

The Punjab Street Premier League (PSPL) will feature 8 teams, each comprising 20 players -- 14 from Punjab and 6 from other Indian states. Trials will be conducted across every district of Punjab and key cities in India, ensuring wide participation and talent discovery.

All matches will be broadcast live on national sports channels, giving players the kind of exposure rarely seen in grassroots tournaments. A structured player auction system will be introduced, with base prices starting at ₹25,000, offering both recognition and financial incentive.

Reinforcing the league's commitment to environmental sustainability, a tree will be planted for every dot ball bowled. Moreover, in each match, 50 individuals who have successfully overcome addiction will be honoured and offered a one-year free cricket academy training program along with gym memberships. (ANI)

(The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)