Viral, But Missing: Kashmir’s social media cricket stars missing from JKCA T20 trials

Srinagar, May 23: The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association’s (JKCA) Senior Men’s T20 trials drew 193 registrations this year — an impressive number by most standards. Yet, an unsettling question echoes through the valleys and online chatter. Where are the cricketing stars of social media?

Many players in the region — often hailed as local legends for their swashbuckling knocks and viral sixes — are missing from the registration list. Their absence has sparked speculation about credibility, opportunity, and the future of cricket in Jammu and Kashmir.

Ground Reality vs Online Stardom

Former J&K captain and seasoned cricketer Samiullah Beigh framed the issue succinctly, “Social media is not a selection panel. What we see are innings played on matting wickets, with average bowling, and short boundaries. Cricket is about facing quality bowlers on turf wickets under pressure. That's where real talent shows.”

He pointed to the open nature of this year’s trials. “If JKCA had shortlisted candidates, we could have questioned the system. But this was an open trial. Everyone was asked to register — and still, many didn’t show up.”

Inside the Mind of a Social Media Cricket Star

One of the local cricketers who did register, Wasim Wani, prominently known as ‘Waseem Kachru’, sees the trials as a vital step forward.

“I have played since I was 14, represented J&K in U-19. This is my shot to return to the state setup. Trials are tough, but they’re fair now. Even the yo-yo test was done first — that's professional.”

Asked about the gap between online hype and official cricket, he smiled, “It’s a different game. Social media gives exposure, but at the end of the day, you have to perform on turf against serious competition.”

Missed Out on a Technicality

Popular on social media, south Kashmir cricketer Nasir Kumar, known for his hard-hitting displays in local tournaments and on Instagram reels, admitted he missed the deadline.

“I had done the registration but couldn’t submit the final form in time. I uploaded it just after the window closed,” he said.

His situation highlights another issue, a lack of clarity and support for those unfamiliar with online systems or unaware of administrative cut-offs.

Unaware and Undone

Ishtiyaq Rasool, a seasoned cricketer who played for the J&K state team in 2013–14, also stayed away — but not by choice.

“I didn’t know anything about it, so how could I go” he asked. “Earlier, we just showed up when the dates were announced and gave trials on the ground.”

He adds, “It’s been four or five years now — they’ve stopped letting us play locally, but we kept playing. “We’ve kept playing — but somehow, we’ve been left out.”

He remains a registered JKCA player but believes the communication gap is hurting experienced players. “Now we hear you have to book a slot. But nobody made that clear to us.”

Past Scars and Scepticism

A senior player — one of the most respected voices in J&K cricket — offered a sobering reflection, “I think it’s past experience. Some players feel selection is predetermined. That belief discourages them.”

He added, “If I were in their place, maybe I would hesitate too.”

An Opportunity Ignored

Former J&K skipper Beigh was direct in his assessment,

“It’s easy to criticise from outside. You can't blame the system when you haven't even shown up. If you're not appearing for the exam, how can you claim injustice.”

“Although no longer part of the JKCA setup, Beigh said, “There’s no shortlist this time. No favouritism. Everyone is welcome.”

A Widening Gap

What emerges is not just a difference in playing level but a cultural divide — between social media cricketers who thrive in local circuits and online, and a formal system that demands discipline, fitness, and consistency.

“Cricket isn’t run by Facebook likes,” another former cricketer remarked. “If these stars believe they’re good enough, why not prove it in a trial.”

A System in Transition

Shabir Ahmad, a cricket observer in the region, said that while the JKCA has faced criticism for a lack of transparency in the past, this open trial format may mark a turning point.

“Yet, the lack of participation from some of the most celebrated local players raises concerns. It either points to a communication failure or a mindset problem. Either way, it needs addressing.”