Legends League Lights Up Jammu: International Cricketers Arrive

International cricket players arrived in the Jammu division of the union territory to participate in the Legends League Cricket, with stringent security measures in place as Police ensured robust security arrangements for the event.

Jammu’s Maulana Azad Stadium, dormant in international cricket for over three decades, is set to illuminate with floodlights as it welcomes former cricketing legends from around the world. The city, known for its temples, will host four matches in the ongoing second season of the Legends League Cricket, evoking anticipation and excitement among fans.

Constructed in 1966, Maulana Azad Stadium stands as one of the home grounds for the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team. The venue witnessed its last international match between India and New Zealand on December 19, 1988, before being sidelined due to militancy.

The day-night series in Jammu commences on Monday at 7 pm with Manipal Tigers, led by Harbhajan Singh, facing Southern Super Stars, captained by Australian cricketer Aaron Finch. Subsequent matches feature teams like Irfan Pathan-led Bhilwara Kings, India Capitals led by Gautam Gambhir, and Suresh Raina’s Urban Risers Hyderabad.

Over 100 former cricketers, including Mohammad Kaif, Yusuf Pathan, Shane Watson, Chris Gayle, and others, will grace the Jammu matches. This marks the return of international cricket to Jammu after a hiatus of 30 years, drawing praise from Legends League Cricket Co-founder Raman Raheja.

Raheja expressed gratitude for the overwhelming fan response, with 50% of the 20,000-capacity stadium’s tickets already sold. He acknowledged the support of the Jammu and Kashmir administration, with Lt Governor Manoj Sinha expected to attend one of the matches.

To ensure a seamless event, Inspector General of Police, Jammu zone, Anand Jain, chaired a meeting focusing on security, law and order, transportation, and accommodation for the players. Cricket enthusiasts in Jammu are thrilled at the prospect of witnessing their cricketing idols in action.

The final leg of Legends League Cricket Season 2 is scheduled at Surat’s Lalbhai Contractor Stadium between December 5 and 9.

Jammu is set to host a stellar lineup of over 100 former cricketers, featuring renowned players such as Mohammad Kaif, Yusuf Pathan, S Sreesanth, Robin Uthappa (India), Shane Watson (Australia), Tilakarante Dilshan (Sri Lanka), Chris Gayle, Ricardo Powell, Dwanye Smith, and Tino Best (West Indies), Kevin O’Brien (Ireland), Hashim Amla and Morne Morkel (South Africa), Kevin Petersen (England), Abdur Razzak (Bangladesh), Ross Taylor, Martin Guptil (New Zealand), and Asghar Afghan (Afghanistan). They are poised to participate in the upcoming matches, adding a touch of international cricketing excellence to the Legends League Cricket event in the region.(KNS)