Legendary cricketer and former India head coach Ravi Shastri praised the immense cricketing talent of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth during a media interaction at Maulana Azad Stadium in Jammu. Shastri was in the city for the opening match of the Legends League Cricket (LLC) between Manipal Tigers and Toyam Hyderabad, a special event for local fans to see cricket icons in action.
Reflecting on his visit, Shastri recalled his last trip to Kashmir in 1987 when he played an international match in Srinagar against Australia. He expressed his excitement about returning and spoke highly of the potential among young cricketers in Jammu and Kashmir, saying, “There is huge talent here, but the youngsters need exposure and opportunities to showcase their skills.” He emphasized the need for more matches and training to nurture this talent, noting the improved cricketing infrastructure in the region.
When asked about Umran Malik’s current absence from the Indian national team, Shastri acknowledged the intense competition within the squad. He praised Malik’s raw talent but stressed that the young pacer must continue to work hard to earn his spot back. “Umran knows the challenge ahead, but he has the talent to make a comeback,” Shastri remarked.
Commenting on the conditions of the Maulana Azad Stadium, Shastri pointed out its potential for hosting future events but suggested improvements to the outfield and pitch. He urged the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to attend the matches, highlighting the importance of learning from seasoned players. “When I was young, I watched senior players play, and that inspired me. I encourage youngsters to seize every opportunity to play in different formats. The scope for growth is tremendous,” he added.
The inaugural match between Manipal Tigers and Toyam Hyderabad attracted an enthusiastic crowd, with organizers hoping for even larger audiences in the upcoming games. The Legends League Cricket event offers a unique opportunity for cricket fans in Jammu to witness world-class action up close.
