Kashmir set to host Legends League Cricket Showdown

Srinagar, Aug 28: The echoes of willow on leather will resound once again in Kashmir as the Legends League Cricket (LLC) announces its grand finale in Srinagar, marking the return of professional cricket to the Valley after a four-decade hiatus.

The star-studded tournament, featuring cricketing icons from around the globe, is set to kick off on September 20 at Jodhpur's Barkatullah Khan Stadium. However, it's the final leg at Srinagar's Bakshi Stadium that's creating waves of excitement across the cricketing world.

"This is a huge opportunity for the people of Kashmir," said Raman Raheja, Co-Founder of LLC. "They'll witness live cricketing action for the first time in almost 40 years. It's not just about cricket; it's about reconnecting with a passion that's been dormant for too long."

The tournament's previous edition was a massive hit, drawing 180 million viewers across India. With an expanded schedule and an even more illustrious lineup - including the recently retired Shikhar Dhawan - this season promises to shatter all previous records.

Cricket enthusiasts can look forward to watching former international stalwarts like Suresh Raina, Aaron Finch, Martin Guptill, Gautam Gambhir, Chris Gayle, Hashim Amla, and Ross Taylor in action. These legends will be part of a pool of over 200 players vying for spots in the six competing teams.

The cricketing extravaganza will unfold across four cities: Jodhpur, Surat, Jammu, and Srinagar. The tournament kicks off at the Barkatullah Khan Stadium, Jodhpur on September 20, then moves to the Lalbhai Contractor Stadium, Surat on September 27. The third leg will be played at the Maulana Azad Stadium, Jammu from October 6, marking international cricket's return to the city after 35 years. The finals of the LLC will be played at the Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar from October 10.

A total of 25 matches will be played, culminating in an electrifying final on October 10. The player auction, scheduled for August 29 in New Delhi, will see franchises battling it out for the biggest names in cricket.