International Cricket Council’s Srinagar Visit Paves Way For Kashmir’s Return To Cricket
A Historic Day for Cricket in Kashmir
On August 10, 2023, the International Cricket Council (ICC) made a historic visit to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. The visit was led by ICC Chairman Greg Barclay and CEO Geoff Allardice, who met with local cricket officials and players to discuss the possibility of hosting international cricket matches in Kashmir.
A Long-Awaited Return
Kashmir has a rich cricket history, but the region has been largely isolated from the international cricket community due to political unrest. The ICC’s visit is a significant step towards bringing international cricket back to Kashmir and providing opportunities for local players to showcase their talent on a global stage.
ICC Announces Plan to Host Matches in Kashmir
Following the visit, the ICC announced that it plans to host international cricket matches in Kashmir in the near future. The matches will be part of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2, a qualifying tournament for the 2023 Cricket World Cup. The matches will be played at the Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar, which is currently undergoing renovations to meet international standards.
The announcement has been met with great enthusiasm by the local cricket community and the people of Kashmir. It is seen as a major boost for the sport in the region and a symbol of hope for a brighter future.
Dinesh Karthik to Lead Indian Team in Kashmir
The Indian cricket team, led by Dinesh Karthik, will play two matches against the West Indies cricket team in Kashmir in September 2023. The matches will be the first international cricket matches to be played in Kashmir in over two decades.
Karthik, a veteran wicket-keeper batsman, expressed his excitement about leading the team in Kashmir. He said, "It is a great honor to lead the Indian team in Kashmir and to be a part of this historic moment. We are looking forward to playing some exciting cricket and to giving the people of Kashmir a memorable experience."
Conclusion
The ICC’s visit to Srinagar and the announcement of plans to host international cricket matches in Kashmir are major developments for cricket in the region. It is a sign that Kashmir is slowly returning to the international cricket community and that the people of Kashmir are once again able to enjoy the sport they love.
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