He expressed that there is tremendous cricketing potential in the Union Territory that is yet to be realized, noting that the impact of the Ranji Trophy victory has led to an increase in participation among both boys and girls in cricket activities.
He highlighted that the J&K team already boasts some players in the current Indian Premier League (IPL), which he believes is expanding every year.
He extended his gratitude to former BCCI Secretary and current ICC Chairman Jay Shah, as well as current BCCI President Mithun Manhas, for their attention to the facilities in J&K, along with the present management’s efforts in enhancing infrastructure since 2021.
In an interview with CNBC-TV18 during the World IP Day celebrations in New Delhi, he encouraged aspiring cricketers to “stay focused, work hard, and be patient for your time to shine.”
The Ranji champions gifted a GI-tagged Willow Bat to Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, who described the present as a “symbol of exquisite craftsmanship and the essence of cricket,” as it is the only sports-related product in India with a GI tag.
He urged the industry to establish dedicated manufacturing capabilities in Jammu and Kashmir. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Secretary for Youth Services and Sports in Jammu and Kashmir, called for leveraging the chance to develop winter sports facilities in the region as a means of fostering local innovation.
