Six injured after stadium wall collapses during RPL opener in Pulwama

Pulwama: Six people were reportedly injured after a stadium wall collapsed amid a large gathering during the opening match of the second edition of the Royal Premier League (RPL) in Pulwama on Tuesday.

The incident occurred at the Sports Stadium in Pulwama, where more than 2,000 spectators had gathered to watch the season opener. The heavy turnout reportedly created crowd-management challenges as fans arrived in large numbers to witness the return of the tournament.

The RPL began its second season on August 19, with day-and-night matches being played under floodlights. The tournament’s return was welcomed by local residents, although the large gathering also renewed concerns over traffic and crowd management around the venue.

Residents urged the administration to make better arrangements for managing traffic and spectators, particularly in view of similar difficulties during the previous edition.

The second season features 10 teams: Sultan Warriors Baramulla, The Real Sultan Sumerbugh, Al Noor Kings, Bhat Lions Kupwara, Valley Star Ganderbal, Murad Cricket Club, Al Fallah Cricket Club, United Imports Srinagar, Valley Fresh Cold Chain and Royal Goodwill Cricket Club.

The league is also expected to provide a platform for emerging cricketers from the region to showcase their talent and encourage more youngsters to take up the sport.

MLA Pulwama Waheed Para attended the opening and spoke about the importance of encouraging young people to pursue cricket. He welcomed the return of the league and highlighted its role in bringing communities together through sport.

The tournament is being held at the Sports Stadium, Pulwama, with floodlit matches scheduled as part of the second edition.