Srinagar, April 17 : Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan on Thursday said that Kashmir’s youth possess immense passion for cricket but lack consistent opportunities and infrastructure to showcase their talent.
Speaking at the launch of the EPIC Victory Cricket League (EVCL) in Srinagar, Pathan told Gulistan News TV that the new league aims to bridge this gap and bring raw talent into the national spotlight.
“I have seen it firsthand – a left-arm pacer from Kupwara, boys from Baramulla… they have fire in them. What’s missing is exposure and proper training,” Pathan said during a press conference at Hotel Radisson, as reported by Gulistan News TV.
He said the EVCL would provide a crucial platform for young players not just from Jammu and Kashmir but also from states like Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. The league will feature a blend of upcoming talent and experienced domestic players, offering opportunities for learning and mentorship.
“This is not just a tournament; it will be a platform to change lives,” he added. Pathan also stressed the urgent need for better cricket infrastructure in Kashmir, pointing out that many districts still play on matting wickets. “Turf wickets are the need of the hour if we want to prepare players for national-level competitions,” he said.
The former Indian all-rounder also hailed the rise of female cricketers from the region, calling it a “positive sign” that Kashmir’s youth, irrespective of gender, are eager to make their mark.
Pathan, who has previously worked with young cricketers in Kashmir during his tenure with the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA), said he has personally witnessed the hunger for cricket in even the most remote corners of the Valley.