Early Times Report
Jammu, Feb 19: Jammu & Kashmir cricket team will clash with star studded Karnataka team here in five-day quarterfinal of the Ranji Trophy 2019-20, to be played at GGM Science College Hostels Ground, here on Thursday. "We are happy because Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) team has set history by entering into quarterfinal and the best part is that we are the host and making all arrangements in a short span of time," Ashiq Bukhari, Chief Executive Officer, JKCA told reporters here at a press conference on Wednesday. He said that Jammu & Kashmir team has performed brilliantly throughout the season and out of nine matches, they lost only one and qualified for the quarter. "Post August 5, situation in J&K is known to everyone. Due to internet shutdown, there was no connectivity in the Kashmir valley and we were much worried about forming team as nobody was able to establish contact with each other," said the CEO and added that police department has played a key role finding these players, who were not in touch.
"Efforts paid off and results are completely astonishing," said Mr Bukhari and added that JKCA at present has a blend of experienced and youngsters, which makes a good combination. He expressed hope that J&K team will surely defeat the visiting team on home turf and set a new record.
The CEO also added that raw talent is being nurtured in remote belts and infrastructure has also been raised in Srinagar, Barmulla, Jammu, Samba, Rajouri for cricket activities.
Mr Bukhari also appreciated former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan for being mentor of JKCA, who guided the young Turks with his International cricket experience.
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