J&K’s Ranji triumph inspires young cricketers: Kirti Dhar

Jammu, Mar 2: Jammu and Kashmir’s victory over Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy final has sparked widespread enthusiasm among aspiring cricketers across the Union Territory, with a surge in interest from young players eager to take up the sport.

Kirti Dhar, the first woman member of the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA), said the historic win has become a source of inspiration for both boys and girls and is likely to give a major boost to cricket in the region.

She said the triumph would encourage young women in particular to step forward and pursue the game with confidence.

According to her, the achievement has created a renewed sense of belief among female cricketers that they too can excel at the highest levels.

Dhar also praised Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for supporting the team and travelling from Srinagar to Hubballi to watch the final.

She said his presence at the match reflected the government’s commitment to promoting sports and encouraging local talent.

She attributed the team’s success to collective efforts and coordination at multiple levels. Dhar lauded Mithun Manhas, President of the

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), JKCA Member Administration Brig Anil Gupta, the selection committee, coaches and the management for their role in guiding the team to victory.

Highlighting the immediate impact of the win, Dhar said cricket academies and training centres in the region have begun receiving increased enquiries from youngsters, especially girls, seeking admission and professional coaching.

She stressed the need to strengthen facilities for women’s cricket to ensure equal opportunities.

While noting that infrastructure exists for both men and women cricketers in J&K, she said additional focus and investment in women’s cricket would help sustain the growing interest.

Dhar described the Ranji Trophy title as a landmark moment for Jammu and Kashmir cricket, expressing hope that the achievement would pave the way for greater participation and a more inclusive sporting culture in the Union Territory.