Srinagar, Feb 26 (PP): The Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) on Wednesday facilitated the Jammu and Kashmir Ranji Trophy players for their impressive performance in the recent season. The event took place at the JKCA headquarters in Srinagar, where the association recognized the team’s hard work and dedication throughout the season.
In a press conference at the event, J&K Ranji Team Head Coach Ajay Sharma, as per the news agency Prism Post (PP), expressed his pride in the team’s achievements and the contribution of everyone involved. “All credit goes to the team members for their hard work, commitment, and self-belief. Because of their efforts, we defeated big teams like Bombay, even in their own backyard. I would also like to credit my staff and the management, as well as the selectors for their continued support. A special thanks to the sub-committee for providing us with a better environment and the necessary facilities. It’s the result of these efforts that we qualified for the Ranji Trophy. Unfortunately, we lost in the quarterfinals by just one run. It was just not our luck, but if it had been, the result would have been different. The future of cricket in J&K looks very bright, and I’m confident the players will continue to improve,” Sharma said.
Rising Cricketer and a key player in the squad, Abdul Samad, reflected on the team’s performance and emphasized the need for consistency in the future. “We must focus on consistency and not be satisfied with just one win. Our goal should always be to aim higher—next time, we want to play in the semi-finals and finals,” Samad said during the media interaction.
“A true player doesn’t rely on the availability of top-tier facilities; they must perform with whatever is available. Even with limited resources, players must rise to the occasion,” he remarked.
The J&K Ranji team, consisting of a core group of 20-25 players, has been playing consistently over recent years, gaining exposure through regular competitive matches. Samad highlighted the importance of this exposure, noting, “This constant exposure to competitive cricket has been instrumental in our progress.”
Samad also emphasized the need for improved playing conditions, particularly the importance of turf wickets for player development. “While everyone has played cricket at some level, playing on turf is crucial for players aspiring to reach the top. Local bodies should focus on providing turf wickets to help players grow and prepare for bigger challenges,” he added, as per the news agency PP.
Samad concluded with a hopeful message, saying, “The future looks promising, and with hard work and consistency, we will continue to improve.” The JKCA’s facilitation of the team underscores their ongoing commitment to player development and the elevation of cricket standards in Jammu & Kashmir.
It’s to mention that in the recently concluded Ranji Trophy, Kerala’s batters overcame a tough test from J&K to reach their first semifinal in six years, showcasing the strength and determination of the J&K team despite the challenge. This performance has sparked hope for a stronger future, as J&K continues to build its cricketing legacy. (PP)
