Haryana Minister of State for Sports Gaurav Gautam today inaugurated the three-day International Friendly Cricket Series 2026 at Laxman Ahlawat Cricket Academy in Palwal. The series features Under-14 teams from Sri Lanka and Saraswati Cricket Academy. Speaking on the occasion, Mr Gautam said the friendly series would strengthen sporting ties between India and Sri Lanka and provide young players an opportunity to gain international exposure and learn from one another.

He said, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sports in the country have received a new direction, with greater emphasis on encouraging young talent and improving sports infrastructure.

The Minister said the Haryana government, under Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, is also taking several initiatives to promote sporting talent through its sports policy, incentives and modern facilities. He added that young athletes are being prepared for Olympic-level competitions under Mission Olympics 2036.

Mr Gautam expressed confidence that the participating players would demonstrate talent, discipline and true sportsmanship during the series.