-By ArdorComm News Network
October 19, 2024
After a 40-year hiatus, international cricket made a historic return to Kashmir, filling the region with excitement and hope for the future. The recently concluded Legends League Cricket (LLC) T20 tournament in Srinagar’s Bakshi Stadium brought joy to cricket fans and stimulated the local economy, reigniting interest in international sporting events in the Valley.
A New Experience for Kashmiris
For Mohammad Basit, 25, returning home past midnight after watching a live match in Srinagar was a surreal experience. In a region where nightlife is rare due to years of conflict, the late-night atmosphere during the LLC matches provided an exhilarating shift for Kashmir’s youth, many of whom were born after the 1990s.
“The announcement of the Legends League Cricket event in September thrilled me to the core,” Basit said.
The LLC, a T20 cricket league featuring former international players, marked the revival of major cricket events in the Valley. Seven matches of the league’s third edition were played at the recently revamped Bakshi Stadium, which drew in thousands of fans from across the region. The final match between Southern Super Stars and Konark Suryas Odisha on Wednesday evening was a thrilling spectacle, with the stadium packed with over 27,000 enthusiastic spectators.
A Thrilling Finale and Hope for IPL
The Southern Super Stars triumphed in a dramatic Super Over, lifting the trophy in front of cheering fans. Mohammad Shahid, one of the attendees, expressed his excitement: “It was the first time I saw my favourite cricketers like Yusuf Pathan and Martin Guptill live in action.”
Fans carried placards reading “IPL: Kashmir is ready” and “Kashmir wants King Kohli,” expressing hopes that the Indian Premier League (IPL) would soon come to the Valley.
The current reception to the LLC was in stark contrast to the two ODI matches held in Kashmir in the 1980s, where tensions marred the atmosphere. Today, the Valley is eager to host more international events, reflecting a positive shift in public sentiment. “There has been a significant change now. The people want international events to be organised here,” said Mohammad Rafi, a local resident.
Economic Boost from Sporting Events
Beyond the joy for cricket fans, the LLC event provided a much-needed boost to local businesses. Hotels, restaurants, and transport services saw increased activity as spectators traveled to Srinagar from various parts of the country.
Sheikh Ashiq, a prominent businessman and former president of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCCI), said, “These events have a positive impact on business. We are looking forward to hosting more such events.”
Source: hindubusinessline