Shillong, April 10: In a fitting blend of competition and remembrance, the East Khasi Hills SP Office team lifted the title of the inaugural WR Nongspung Memorial Cricket Tournament, defeating Police Reserve in a well-contested final held here on Friday.
Organised in honour of late WR Nongspung — who lost his life on June 26, 2001, after being shot by suspected HNLC cadres near his residence at Pdeng Shnong, Lumshyiap — the tournament carried an emotional undertone, serving as both a sporting event and a tribute to a life remembered with respect and reverence.
The final witnessed an engaging contest, with Police Reserve putting up a fighting total of 120 runs in the allotted 12 overs. The chase, however, belonged to the SP Office side, who approached the target with composure and intent, overhauling it comfortably inside 10 overs to seal the championship in convincing fashion.
Morningstar Khongwir emerged as the standout performer with the bat, anchoring the innings with a fluent knock of 63 runs that effectively steered the chase. On the bowling front, Jitu Daimary delivered a remarkable spell, scalping five wickets to dismantle the opposition and tilt the balance firmly in favour of his side.
For his decisive all-round contribution in the final, Daimary was adjudged the Man of the Match, while Khongwir’s consistent performances throughout the competition earned him the Man of the Series honour.
Beyond the boundary ropes, the tournament underscored the depth of sporting talent within the police fraternity, while also reinforcing a deeper sense of unity and remembrance. It stood as a poignant reminder of Nongspung’s sacrifice, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire through initiatives that bring people together.
The closing ceremony was attended by DIG Eastern Range VS Rathore as the chief guest, alongside East Khasi Hills SP Vivek Syiem, SP (City) D Pandey, the mother of the late Nongspung, and Rangbah Shnong of Lawsohtun H. Rynjah, lending the occasion both dignity and emotional resonance.
