After nearly four decades, top level cricket returned to Srinagar and cricket fans couldn't contain their excitement. The Legends Cricket League match saw a packed Bakshi stadium, with an attendance of over 30,000 people, eager to watch Chris Gayle in action. The West Indian did not disappoint, hitting three massive sixes during his knock of 34 runs from 30 balls. Other international stars like Shikhar Dhawan, Irfan Pathan, and Suresh Raina were also in attendance. In the match, Pathan-led Konark Suryas comfortably defeated Gujarat Giants, led by Dhawan, by seven wickets.
Cricket Returns to Srinagar: Legends League Match Ignites Excitement
After a hiatus of nearly four decades, top-level cricket returned to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, on September 25, 2022. The occasion was a Legends Cricket League (LCL) match between Konark Suryas and Gujarat Giants, which drew a crowd of over 30,000 people to the Bakshi Stadium.
The return of cricket to Srinagar was a historic moment for the region, which has been plagued by decades of conflict. For cricket fans, it was a chance to witness some of the greatest players in the world, including Chris Gayle, Shikhar Dhawan, Irfan Pathan, and Suresh Raina.
Background
Cricket has a rich history in Kashmir, with the region producing several renowned players, including Parvez Rasool, Abdul Samad, and Riyaz Bukhari. However, due to the ongoing conflict, international cricket has not been played in the region for many years.
In 2022, the Legends Cricket League (LCL) announced that it would be organizing a match in Srinagar, with a view to promoting peace and reconciliation in the region. The LCL is a Twenty20 league for retired cricketers, featuring some of the biggest names in the game.
The Match
The match between Konark Suryas and Gujarat Giants was a thrilling affair, with both teams featuring a host of international stars. Konark Suryas, led by Irfan Pathan, emerged victorious by seven wickets, with Chris Gayle hitting three massive sixes during his innings.
The match was a resounding success, with fans from all over the region flocking to the Bakshi Stadium. The return of cricket to Srinagar has been hailed as a positive step towards peace and reconciliation in the region.
Top 5 FAQs
1. When was the last time international cricket was played in Srinagar? International cricket was last played in Srinagar in 1984.
2. Who was the captain of the Konark Suryas team? Irfan Pathan was the captain of the Konark Suryas team.
3. Who led the Gujarat Giants team? Shikhar Dhawan led the Gujarat Giants team.
4. What was the attendance at the match? Over 30,000 people attended the match.
5. What is the significance of the return of cricket to Srinagar? The return of cricket to Srinagar is seen as a positive step towards peace and reconciliation in the region.
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