Photo: BSS

RAJSHAHI, Aug 22, 2026 (BSS) - Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu today said Rajshahi once occupied a leading position in Bangladesh's sports arena, producing a large number of talented players who represented the country at national level.

"Among 15 players in the national football team, seven to eight used to be from Rajshahi," he said, recalling the contributions of legendary footballers like Shamsu and Manoj.

The minister made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony of the Deputy Commissioner Gold Cup Football Tournament-2026 at Rajshahi Muktijuddho Smriti Stadium this afternoon.

He said Rajshahi's sporting achievements were not limited to football. The city and district had also dominated cricket, hockey and badminton.

The minister expressed gratitude to the large number of sports-loving spectators who attended the inaugural ceremony and opening match despite the scorching heat and adverse weather conditions.

In the opening match of the tournament, the Rajshahi City Corporation team defeated Bagmara Upazila team 1-0.

District Administrator Kazi Shahidul Islam presided over the inaugural programme.

Advocate Shafiqul Haque Malon, MP; Dr Abdul Bari, MP; Nazrul Islam, MP; Abu Sayed Chand, MP; Divisional Commissioner Yusuf Ali; Rajshahi City Corporation Administrator Mahfuzur Rahman Rotin; RMP Commissioner Faizul Kabir; Rajshahi Development Authority Chairman Abul Kalam Azad Sweet; and Zilla Parishad Administrator Advocate Ershad Ali Isha were present as special guests.

Officials and employees of different government and non-government organisations, local political leaders, players, spectators, distinguished personalities and media representatives also attended the programme.

The event began with the hoisting of the national flag and rendition of the national anthem. The tournament was formally inaugurated with the release of balloons and festoons, unveiling of the trophy and a display exhibition, followed by the opening match.

A festive atmosphere prevailed at the stadium as a large number of spectators gathered to witness the tournament's inauguration.

A total of 10 teams are participating in the tournament, including the Rajshahi City Corporation team and nine teams representing the nine upazilas of the district.