Red Premier League Season 2 kicks off at Bakshi Stadium

Srinagar, Sep 11: The second season of the Red Premier League (RPL) commenced on Thursday with a colourful inaugural ceremony at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar.

A large crowd had gathered to witness their favourite cricket stars in action, including Abdul Samad, Auqib Nabi and several other players from the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA).

The event was graced by J&K Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Sports Minister Satish Sharma, and NC legislator from Lal Chowk, Ahsan Pardesi, who interacted with players before the toss.

Officials from the JKCA were also present on the occasion.

Students from Dubai Grand International School (DGIS) added colour to the event by escorting players onto the field. They were accompanied by the school’s Chairman Mohammad Hanief Bhat, Vice Principal Parvez Ahmad Paul, and other staff members.

Abrar Ahmad, a member of the organising body, said the overwhelming response from last year’s edition encouraged them to host the tournament at Bakshi Stadium this season. “Last time the venue was too small. This year, we decided to make it a ticketed event at just Rs 99, mainly to filter the crowd and maintain discipline,” he said.

He added that the tournament aims to provide a professional cricketing atmosphere in Kashmir, blending sports and entertainment. “It is like an IPL experience. The most important thing is that for the first time, JKCA has allowed its star players to participate in a local league, which is a huge opportunity for emerging cricketers. Selectors are also watching, which opens up chances for young talent.”

Crowd management, however, posed challenges on the opening day, with many spectators attempting to breach barriers. The organisers said they were coordinating with the administration to ensure stronger security deployment in the coming matches.

Abrar added that the tournament is expected to feature not only local cricketing icons but also players from outside Jammu and Kashmir. The organisers hinted that pacer Umran Malik and Lalit Yadav may also take part in upcoming matches.

Calling on people to support the event, Abrar said that their only appeal was for discipline from spectators. “We want families to come, enjoy cricket, and experience this festive atmosphere. This culture of entertainment and sports together will inspire the next generation of cricketers in Kashmir,” he said.