SRINAGAR : Srinagar is all padded up for concluding matches of Legends League Cricket (LLC), a historic moment as it marks the first time in nearly 40 years that an international event of this magnitude will be held in the region.
With seven thrilling matches scheduled from Oct 9 to 16, fans are buzzing with excitement at the prospect of seeing international stars such as Shikhar Dhawan, Dinesh Karthik, Upul Tharanga, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Irfan Pathan, Yusuf Pathan and Ian Bell in action.
The tournament will culminate in a grand finale on Oct 16. LLC began in Jodhpur on Sept 20, followed by matches in Surat, before moving to Jammu and Srinagar for its grand conclusion. Six teams are in the field: India Capitals, Gujarat Giants, Manipal Tigers, Southern Superstars, Urbanrisers Hyderabad and Bhilwara Kings.
The games in Srinagar will be held at Bakshi Stadium , which was chosen as it can seat over 30,000 people, nearly three times the capacity of Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium. Traditionally a football ground, Bakshi Stadium has undergone a significant transformation. Pitch curators from US have worked on the surface to make it suitable for cricket.
The event is expected to have a positive impact on local tourism, with visitors from across the country flocking to Srinagar to witness the matches. “This is more than just a cricket event. It’s about showcasing the potential of Kashmir as a host for international events. It’s also a great opportunity to boost tourism and highlight the peaceful and beautiful side of our region,” said Sajad, a tour operator in Srinagar.
Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha-led administration called it “a proud moment for Kashmir”. “Hosting Legends League Cricket is not just about the sport; it highlights the growing cultural and sporting significance of the region. The world’s attention will be on Kashmir, not only for its beauty but also for its ability to host world-class events,” a senior official said.
Srinagar cricket buff Feroz Ahmed can’t wait for the ball to roll. “Watching legends like Chris Gayle, Ian Bell, and Shikhar Dhawan play live in Srinagar is something I never imagined. This is going to be a spectacle we’ll remember for years,” Feroz said.
Asim Shabir, a local cricketer, believes LLC will offer more than “just entertainment”. “It’s an opportunity for our young players to learn and be motivated by some of the best cricketers in the world,” Shabir said.
A security blanket is being put in place with a comprehensive plan to ensure the safety of players, officials and spectators devised by senior J&K cops and officials of other security agencies. CCTV cameras have been installed in and around Bakshi Stadium, constantly monitored by top officials to prevent any untoward incidents.
“We have left no stone unturned in ensuring maximum security. We are fully prepared to handle any situation and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone,” a senior official said. Barricades and designated entry points will control the flow of spectators, who will have to go through strict frisking, the official said.
With seven thrilling matches scheduled from Oct 9 to 16, fans are buzzing with excitement at the prospect of seeing international stars such as Shikhar Dhawan, Dinesh Karthik, Upul Tharanga, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Irfan Pathan, Yusuf Pathan and Ian Bell in action.
The tournament will culminate in a grand finale on Oct 16. LLC began in Jodhpur on Sept 20, followed by matches in Surat, before moving to Jammu and Srinagar for its grand conclusion. Six teams are in the field: India Capitals, Gujarat Giants, Manipal Tigers, Southern Superstars, Urbanrisers Hyderabad and Bhilwara Kings.
The games in Srinagar will be held at Bakshi Stadium , which was chosen as it can seat over 30,000 people, nearly three times the capacity of Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium. Traditionally a football ground, Bakshi Stadium has undergone a significant transformation. Pitch curators from US have worked on the surface to make it suitable for cricket.
The event is expected to have a positive impact on local tourism, with visitors from across the country flocking to Srinagar to witness the matches. “This is more than just a cricket event. It’s about showcasing the potential of Kashmir as a host for international events. It’s also a great opportunity to boost tourism and highlight the peaceful and beautiful side of our region,” said Sajad, a tour operator in Srinagar.
Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha-led administration called it “a proud moment for Kashmir”. “Hosting Legends League Cricket is not just about the sport; it highlights the growing cultural and sporting significance of the region. The world’s attention will be on Kashmir, not only for its beauty but also for its ability to host world-class events,” a senior official said.
Srinagar cricket buff Feroz Ahmed can’t wait for the ball to roll. “Watching legends like Chris Gayle, Ian Bell, and Shikhar Dhawan play live in Srinagar is something I never imagined. This is going to be a spectacle we’ll remember for years,” Feroz said.
Asim Shabir, a local cricketer, believes LLC will offer more than “just entertainment”. “It’s an opportunity for our young players to learn and be motivated by some of the best cricketers in the world,” Shabir said.
A security blanket is being put in place with a comprehensive plan to ensure the safety of players, officials and spectators devised by senior J&K cops and officials of other security agencies. CCTV cameras have been installed in and around Bakshi Stadium, constantly monitored by top officials to prevent any untoward incidents.
“We have left no stone unturned in ensuring maximum security. We are fully prepared to handle any situation and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone,” a senior official said. Barricades and designated entry points will control the flow of spectators, who will have to go through strict frisking, the official said.
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