Srinagar: The Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium in Srinagar witnessed a momentous day on Wednesday as BCCI President Mithun Manhas spent almost the entire day at the venue during the Ranji Trophy Elite Group D match between Jammu and Kashmir and Mumbai.
The visit of the BCCI chief added excitement and prestige to the season’s opening match, which drew a large crowd of cricket enthusiasts.
Fans cheered from the stands as the two teams battled it out under bright autumn skies in the Valley.
A senior Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) official told news gathering agency Kashmir Indepth News Service KINS) that all arrangements were in place for the first match of the season. “We ensured that players, officials, and spectators had the best possible experience. The BCCI President’s presence has given a huge morale boost to the players and the people present in the Stadium,” the official said.
On the field, Mumbai posted 336 for five after recovering from early setbacks. Siddhesh Lad starred with a fine 116 off 156 balls (17 fours, 3 sixes), anchoring the innings alongside Shams Mulani, who remained unbeaten on 79 off 125 balls. The duo’s 159-run stand steadied Mumbai after they were struggling at 141 for four.
For Jammu and Kashmir, Yudhvir Singh bowled impressively, claiming two early wickets, while Abid Mushtaq provided key breakthroughs in the middle overs.
As the game progressed, young fans waved J&K flags and applauded every wicket, celebrating the return of top-class domestic cricket to Srinagar.
“The atmosphere at the ground was electric. It’s heartening to see the people of Kashmir turn up in such large numbers to support their team,” Manhas was quoted as saying. “The players from both sides have shown great spirit, and I’m confident that J&K cricket will continue to rise.”(KINS)
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