Numan Bhat
SRINAGAR: After nearly four decades, international cricket has finally returned to Kashmir, with Srinagar’s Bakshi Stadium hosting the final leg of the Legends League Cricket (LLC). The six matches, featuring prominent international cricket stars, have rekindled excitement for the sport in a region where cricket has a complicated history.
The last time Kashmir hosted an international cricket match was in 1986 when India faced Australia at Sher-I-Kashmir Stadium, a game India lost. An earlier match in October 1983 saw India play against the West Indies, which also ended in defeat for the home team. However, it wasn’t just the loss on the field that left a mark; the 1983 game is remembered for the drama that followed.
Several people were accused of digging the pitch during the match as a form of protest, and some of these individuals, including Showkat Bakshi and Mushtaq-ul-Islam, later became prominent figures in the region’s armed insurgency, which erupted in 1989. The political tensions of the time cast a long shadow over international cricket in Kashmir.
Abdul Salam, an 88-year-old cricket enthusiast, vividly recalls the 1983 match at Sher-I-Kashmir Stadium. “I was there when India played the West Indies. It was a big occasion, and the stadium was packed. But after the game, everything changed because of what happened with the pitch. It was more than just a cricket match; it felt like a moment when politics, sports, and the situation in Kashmir collided.” Salam’s memories highlight the complexities of that time when sports and politics often mixed in unexpected ways.
Some local residents have expressed mixed feelings about the matches. Shahid Khan, a young cricket fan, said, “We don’t really care much about these international stars coming here. At the same time, there is a tournament happening at Delhi Public School, and people seem more excited about that. It’s a local affair, and the younger crowd feels more connected to it.” This shows that not everyone is equally interested in international cricket’s return, as some local events resonate more with the community.
While not everyone may share the same enthusiasm for the LLC matches, the return of international cricket has been welcomed by many as a positive step. Local cricketer Murtaza Shafi sees it as a significant opportunity. “When international players come here, it sends a message that things are improving in the Valley. Young cricketers get a chance to watch their idols play, and it inspires them. We have a lot of talent here, and such events can really boost the sport at the grassroots level,” he said.
Another local cricketer, Bilal Bhat, expressed optimism about the impact of these matches on tourism. “Kashmir has always been known for its beauty, and bringing cricket back here can attract more tourists. When international players share their experiences on social media, it can change the perception about the situation here,” he noted. He believes that such events will help showcase Kashmir not only as a beautiful tourist destination but also as a place capable of hosting international sports events.
The organizers have made thorough preparations to ensure that the LLC matches run smoothly. Security measures have been planned carefully, and extensive arrangements have been made to make sure both players and spectators feel safe. This is crucial not only for the success of the event but also for setting a precedent for future international sports events in the region. Authorities are hopeful that the event will boost the local economy, especially in sectors like hospitality and transportation.
Shazia Dar, a local, shared her perspective: “While some may see this as a celebration, I view it as a distraction. Hosting international cricket is great for headlines, but it doesn’t address the deeper issues that continue to affect the Valley. It feels like a superficial attempt to show that everything is fine when the reality is much more complex. People here still face daily struggles, from unemployment to unresolved political problems. Just because famous cricketers are playing a few matches, it doesn’t mean our challenges have disappeared. The focus should be on real, lasting changes that can improve people’s lives.”
A shop owner near Bakshi Stadium, Ghulam Nabi, shared his excitement: “Business is already picking up as people come to watch the matches. We have seen a surge in visitors, and I am hopeful that this will continue during the other games. Events like this can breathe new life into the city.”
The divided opinions reflect a broader issue: For some, the return of international cricket is a symbol of hope and a sign that normalcy is returning to the Valley. For others, it is a reminder of how much still needs to be done to address the underlying issues that have affected the region for decades.
The return of international cricket to Kashmir is more than just a sporting event. It symbolizes a step towards opening up the Valley to the world, changing perceptions, and offering a sense of normalcy to a place that has experienced prolonged conflict. For some, it is a reminder of the past—the tumultuous times when sports and politics collided. For others, it represents a fresh start and an opportunity to present a different narrative about the region.
Adil Bashir, a university student, expressed his excitement: “It’s fantastic to see international cricket back in Kashmir. The energy is different, and people are genuinely excited. For young fans like me, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch international players live in our own city. It brings a sense of joy and normalcy that we really need. We grew up hearing stories about big matches held here decades ago, but now we finally get to experience it ourselves. It’s not just about the game; it’s about feeling connected to the world and seeing a positive side of Kashmir being showcased.”
As the first ball is bowled at Bakshi Stadium, the people of Kashmir will once again witness history in the making. Whether the return of international cricket will have a lasting impact remains to be seen, but it is undoubtedly a moment that has already sparked discussions and hopes for a future where sports can thrive in the Valley without being overshadowed by other concerns.
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