Mangaluru: Former Indian Cricket team captain Mohammad Azarudhin inaugurated the Mangaluru Premier League, on Sunday at NMPT Ground, Panambur. Thus this year’s edition of MPL got a splendid start.

Speaking on the occasion Azharudhin said that Mangaluru is producing promising cricket players to the country. Mangaluru boy K L Rahul is playing for Indian Cricket team. In MPL also some good players will be spotted and focused who will next play for Karnataka and then for India.

“A cricket player should have intention to play for his country. I have many good players who get a job and quit cricket. Hard work will make sure that you will be an expert in your department either in bowling or batting,” he said.

Further lauding the efforts of MPL organisers he said “without the support of MPL organisers it would have been highly difficult to form Kudla cricket team. I wish to paly like present young boys, but it’s not my time.”

He further said that the government should concentrate on constructing a top-class cricket stadium at Mangaluru. There are many players who play good cricket and they need good environment for that.

“Even the people also should encourage league tourneys more. So that many young talents will be focused much and they will get recognition. Once they get recognition then there is no looking backward,” he added.

In the inaugural exhibition match between Azharudhin led organisers XI and Coastalwood star Arjun Kapikad led Tulu Roaring Stars XI, organisers won the toss and loss the match.