Srinagar, Jammu: Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) has started preliminary trials for selection of probable for the Men & Women U19 teams to represent J&K in the U19 Vinoo Mankad Trophy (one day format) and Women U19 One day Trophy being organized by BCCI from 20th September to 18th October 2021. Last year these tournaments could not be held due to Covid-19.In order to ensure that maximum aspiring players both men and women get a fair chance to showcase their talent, the dates for the camp were published in leading newspapers. The trials began on 25th August both at Jammu & Srinagar and will terminate on 27th August. However, seeing the large number of young cricketers reporting for trials, the selectors have been given the option to extend the trials by a day, informed Brig Anil Gupta, Member-Administration JKCA.
Mithun Manhas, Member-Cricket who is personally supervising the trials has revealed in a press release issued by JKCA that almost 60 girls and 900 boys reported for trials on the first day at both the venues. To ensure that proper Covid protocol is maintained players were advised to bring along RT-PCR or RAT report. For those who could not manage the same arrangements were made at both the stadiums to conduct Rapid Antigen Test (RAT). All players without the certificate were subjected to the test before entering the ground stated Mithun Manhas.
Arun Sharma, Chairman of Men Junior Selection Committee stated that he was thrilled with the response and the josh displayed by the participants. On the first day players were allowed to build self-confidence and prepare themselves for their mission. None other than those who did not meet the age criteria have been rejected on the first day. He further said, “selectors would ensure that none of them goes disappointed from here due to reasons other than cricketing abilities. A player will be put through all aspects of the game including mental tests.”
Pratibha Wadhera, Chairperson of the Women Junior Selection Committee informed that 38 girls reported for trials at Jammu which is unprecedented. “For the first time girls have come from Batote, Udhampur, Samba, Akhnoor and Kathua. We will do fair and un-biased selection. I thank the JKCA for taking the initiative to spot young talent across the region,” stated Pratibha.
Majid Dar Incharge Cricket Srinagar stated, “There is huge enthusiasm among the youth and it is a huge turnup from the U-19 level cricketers. We didn’t expect such participation and has surprised all of us.” Sunil Sethi said,” Apart from huge numbers, what is heartening is that players have turned up from far off and remote places. It shows how popular cricket is among the youngsters in J&K. The sub-committee wants to harness this talent.”
