North 24 Parganas DSA secretary appreciates the presence of Subrata Paul in North 24 Parganas football league
North 24 Parganas District Sports Association secretary Nabab Bhattacharya has appreciated the presence of Subrata Paul, former India international custodian and presently national team director, during the rejuvenated North 24 Parganas football league starting from 1 May. The 58 teams in three divisions will vie for the title in a four-month league held in most of the district club grounds. Bhattacharya divulged that there are stadiums in the district in Barrackpore, Naihati, Goyeshpur, and Dumdum, and DSA has plans to get to stadiums if needed. When asked about Subrata Paul’s presence in the league, Bhattacharya explained, “We are thankful to Paul that he has come forward to support the overall development of the game in North 24 Parganas. His presence and encouragement to the next generation of footballers will inspire us to drive for more development through youth programs in the future.” Subrata apart, the North 24 Parganas football league will also be enriched by the presence of a few more former India international footballers from the district like Lal Kamal Bhowmick, Mohammed Rafiq, and junior India international Prabir Das. Along with them, the present-day stars of Indian and Bengal football like Shouvik Chakrabarty, Sahil Harijon, and Tarak Hembrom will also be seen in action in the League this season. Shyamnagar Tarun Sangha, under the coaching of Lal Kamal Bhowmick, and Baranagar Sporting Club which is guided by Ranjan Bhattacharya will be facing each other in the opening match on 1st May. Subrata Paul, although has retired from professional football last year, might not wear gloves again in the league for his club. Still, he is expected to encourage his club footballers. Bhattacharya also revealed they are optimistic about getting sponsors for the league this season. “We have been negotiating with a few financial institutions including the company which came forward for the League last season. We are hopeful that we will get financial support finally,” added Bhattacharya.
