Now, Jail Premier League (JPL) in Mathura to boost physical & mental health of prisoners

MATHURA: In an innovative approach to enhance inmates' physical and mental well-being, the Mathura prison authorities conducted a cricket tournament called Jail Premier League, drawing inspiration from the Indian Premier League (IPL).The sporting event took place within the confines of the prison compound, witnessing active participation from numerous inmates.Jail superintendent Anshuman Garg explained that the primary objective behind organising the Jail Premier League was to provide prisoners with moments of respite from their confined daily routines within the prison walls."The purpose of this is that in today's walled life, some moments will give a feeling of freedom. This is not just a final match, it is a victory of hope, a race of confidence. The ground is the same, but the players have changed - today every run, every catch, every win... is an attempt to prove oneself again", the jail superintendent said.The Jail Premier League, which began in April 2025, featured eight teams formed from different barracks of Mathura jail, with inmates participating as players. The teams were divided into two groups of four, competing in a total of 12 league matches followed by two semi-finals.The tournament concluded with a final match between the Capitals and the Knight Riders, where the Knight Riders clinched the title with a decisive victory."The Jail Premier League competition was started among the prisoners in April 2025. A total of 8 teams from various barracks of the prison have been formed in the said league. There were 4 teams in Group A and 4 teams in Group B. A total of 12 league matches and 2 semi-final matches were played between them. The final match was played today evening between the winning teams of the semi-finals, Knight Riders vs Capitals. It was inaugurated with a toss, in which the team of Knight Riders emerged victorious", Anshuman Garg said.In the tournament's final honours, the inmate Kaushal received dual recognition, securing both Player of the Match and Player of the Series awards. Additionally, Pankaj claimed the purple cap while Bhura earned the orange cap for their respective achievements.