Breaking Age Barriers: 14-year-old Ali Irfan becomes youngest debutant in Red Premier League

Srinagar, Sep 22: Fourteen-year-old Ali Irfan became the youngest player to debut in the ongoing Red Premier League 2025 as well as for team Athwas India 11.

Sharing the field with some of the region’s top players, Ali described the experience as a dream come true.

“It’s a great feeling to play with players who have represented J&K at the top level. It’s an honour,” he said after his first match.

Although the young boy did not get an opportunity to bat in his debut outing, the young all-rounder remained composed. “I just wanted to play my game. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to bat, but I am ready for the upcoming games,” he added.

Ali’s debut cap was presented by team mentor Zahoor Sofi, a top former J&K Ranji player, in the presence of senior players, including Nasir Lone and others, marking a proud moment for both the youngster and the team.

Showing maturity beyond his years, Ali said he is ready to respect team decisions and focus on contributing whenever given the opportunity. “I am prepared for the next matches and will give my best,” he said.

Speaking about his debut, players from the Athwas India team said Ali’s debut underscores the growing presence of young talent in J&K cricket and signals a bright future for the sport in the region.