J&K's shining moments in 2024

Srinagar, Dec 31: Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a transformative year in sports in 2024, with achievements and rising stars making headlines across various disciplines. Here’s a roundup of the region's some of the most remarkable sporting moments.

Cricket: International Stars date with Kashmir

After over three decades, international cricket stars (retired) came to Kashmir with their participation in Legends League Cricket (LLC). The mega cricket event was played at Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar.

Cricket legends like Irfan Pathan, Martin Guptil and Chris Gayle reignited local enthusiasm for the sport.

Ranji Trophy Achievements

Abdul Samad: Made history with twin centuries in a Ranji match.

Shubham Khajuria: Hit a double century, a first for J&K in 22 years.

Aquib Nabi: Became the second highest wicket taker so far claiming 32 wickets in 5 matches.

IPL 2025

Rasikh Salam: The right-arm fast-medium bowler from Kulgam was signed by RCB for Rs 6 crore. Salam previously played for Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Delhi Capitals.

Abdul Samad: An all-rounder from Jammu, Samad was secured for Rs 4.2 crore by Lucknow Super Giants. He earlier represented Sunrisers Hyderabad for three consecutive seasons.

Umran Malik: Known for his express pace, Malik was picked up by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for his base price of Rs 75 lakh. His ability to consistently bowl at speeds exceeding 149 km/h has garnered significant attention in the cricket world.

Yudhvir Singh: An all-rounder, Singh was bought by RCB for Rs 35 lac. He made his IPL debut with Lucknow Super Giants in 2023.

Parvez Rasool

Leadership and Mentorship: Continued to lead by example in the domestic and local circuit, inspiring the next generation of cricketers in J&K.

These selections highlight the growing prominence of cricketing talent from Jammu and Kashmir on the bigger stage.

Day-Night Cricket Developments

Although conducting of LLC was termed as success, but that also sparked calls for better floodlight-equipped venues, with potential to host future international fixtures, providing equal platform to host local cricket in the region.

Football: Progress & Passion

Santosh Trophy

Quarterfinal Entry: The Jammu and Kashmir football team reached the quarterfinals of the 78th Senior Men's National Football Championship (Santosh Trophy).

From J&K, Aqib Reshi scored 6 goals while Adnaan Ayoub scored 2.

Quarterfinal Match: In the quarterfinals, Jammu and Kashmir faced Kerala. Despite a valiant effort, they were narrowly defeated with a score of 1-0.

Club-Level Success

Real Kashmir FC: The club continued its impressive performance in the I-League 2024-25 season. The Jammu & Kashmir Football Association extended its best wishes to all clubs for their journey throughout the season.

JK Bank Football FC: The team made history by securing a victory against North East United (R) in the Climate Cup 2024. This win was celebrated as a significant achievement for the club and the region's football community.

Downtown Heroes FC: Participated in the 2024 Durand Cup, one of India's oldest football tournaments. Although they faced strong competition, their participation highlighted the club's growing stature in Indian football

Grassroots Initiatives

The JKFA states that they have been organizing programs to nurture young talent, laying the foundation for future success.

Impact on the Region

These sporting achievements not only bring pride to Jammu and Kashmir but also inspire budding cricketers and other sports enthusiasts in the valley to pursue the sport professionally.

By: Jahangir Sofi