Photo: BSS

RAJSHAHI, June 7, 2026 (BSS) - Administrator of Rajshahi City Corporation (RCC) Mahfuzur Rahman Riton today said all necessary initiatives would be taken to further advance the city's sports sector, nurture new talents and encourage greater youth participation in sports.

"We will continue extending overall support to produce national and international-level athletes from Rajshahi," he said while addressing the grand finale and prize distribution ceremony of the "Bismillah Enterprise Presents 17 No. Ward Cricket League Season-9, 2026" at Raipara Balur Math under Ward No. 17 this afternoon.

Highlighting the importance of sports development, Riton said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is working relentlessly to promote sports across the country.

"He has introduced honorarium allowances for former athletes and is inspiring young people to pursue sports as a profession," he said.

The RCC administrator said the Prime Minister has directed authorities to establish at least one playground in every ward. In line with that directive, initiatives have been taken to build playgrounds in all wards of Rajshahi city. Plans are also underway to establish a cemetery for every three to four wards, he added.

Expressing optimism about the country's sporting future, Riton said Bangladesh has already earned recognition on the global stage through cricket and hoped that the nation would one day qualify for the FIFA World Cup and bring further glory to the country.

In the final match of the tournament, Baganpara Strikers emerged champions after defeating Jannat Housing.

Following the match, the RCC administrator distributed trophies and prizes among the players of the champion and runner-up teams.