Kashmiri Cricketers Experience Kolkata Cricket Dream
On Saturday morning, cricket created a special bridge for young players from Jammu & Kashmir. They traveled to Kolkata for a memorable experience at the historic Calcutta Cricket & Football Club.
First Time on Proper Ground
For most boys in the K-XI team, this match marked their first opportunity to play on a professional cricket ground. They wore proper sports shoes for the first time. They used high-quality cricket balls and wore proper gloves and pads.
The IHA Foundation organized this initiative with Qafille-e-Mohabbat from Jammu & Kashmir. The Indian Army provided crucial support for the event. This collaboration allowed young Kashmiri talent to compete under authentic match conditions.
Such opportunities remain rare for athletes from remote and conflict-affected regions. The match gave them a platform to express their cricketing skills properly.
Player Experiences and Dreams
Eighteen-year-old bowler Aftab Ali expressed mixed emotions after the game. His team lost to the CCFC XI, but he called the experience empowering. Ali studies in Class 11 and dreams of playing for India one day. He names Hardik Pandya as his favorite sportsperson.
Team captain Aijaz Hussain shared his personal cricket journey. His father worked as a cricket commentator, sparking his early passion for the game. However, limited exposure and poor infrastructure forced him to stop playing. He became an umpire instead.
"Today I wore expensive sports shoes for the first time," Hussain revealed. He explained that most passionate J&K youth lack means to buy proper gear. High ground rents and expensive coaching fees create additional barriers. Talents often get destroyed before they can develop fully.
Eden Gardens Visit and Star Interaction
The young cricketers received a special tour of Eden Gardens stadium. They explored its rich heritage and learned about its legendary legacy. They also met Indian team fast bowler Akash Deep during their visit.
Another player, Irshad Hussain, found the friendly match deeply inspiring. He said they learned valuable lessons from their opponent team during the game.
Officials Recognize Sport's Power
West Bengal minorities commission member Satnam Singh Ahluwalia emphasized sport's unique power. He noted that sports can heal wounds, inspire dreams, and unite communities. This gesture empowered players with dignity and confidence. It provided tangible means to nurture their talent even after returning to Kashmir.
Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwari reflected on cricket's unifying force in India. He expressed deep emotion seeing young boys from Kashmir playing with confidence on the field. Cricket continues to bridge divides across the nation.
The Kolkata experience gave these Kashmiri youth more than just a cricket match. It offered hope, exposure, and memories that will fuel their sporting dreams for years to come.
