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First Class Cricket To Return In Kashmir As Sher-I-Kashmir Stadium Is Set To Host Ranji Games

Sher-I-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar to host Ranji games this year after 6 years (X.com)Sher-I-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar to host Ranji games this year after 6 years (X.com)

In a significant development meant to boost cricket in the valley of Kashmir, BCCI has scheduled two Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season games at the Sher-I-Kashmir Stadium situated in Srinagar in the month of October.

Sher-I-Kashmir Stadium has a rich history in Indian domestic cricket. Established in the 1980s, it has been a venue where local cricketers have showcased their talents on the national stage. 

It also hosted two one day international games back in 1983 and 1986. However, for the longest time, the Stadium has been ignored due to political unrest in the valley of Kashmir.

2018 was the last time Ranji games were played at this venue. However, after a 6 year break, domestic cricket will return to the Sher-I-Kashmir stadium. 

Cricket will be back in Kashmir in October

As per latest report, BCCI has scheduled two games in the month of October. The Jammu & Kashmir team will face Maharashtra on October 11 and then host Services on October 26.

The decision to bring the Ranji Trophy back to Srinagar is also seen as a major boost for local cricket. Over the years, cricketers from Jammu and Kashmir, such as Parvez Rasool, Abdul Samad, and Umran Malik, have made significant strides in IPL and also Indian cricket. 

However, the Sher-e-Kashmir stadium still lacks proper facilities to host first class games. Majid Dar, who is in charge of supervising cricket activities in the valley, admitted that the Srinagar Stadium lacks gym and basic needs which might discourage first class cricketers from other states.

Hence, Dar emphasised the urgent need for adequate development to witness a surge of domestic games in Srinagar in the future.