8-team tournament at Bakshi Stadium aims to boost sports ecosystem, tourism in J&K, says organisers
Srinagar |: The Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL) on Thursday announced the launch of its maiden T20 cricket season, scheduled to kick off on October 23 at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar.
The tournament, as per the organisers will run till November 7 and feature eight teams, blending local talent with players from national and international circuits.
The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Radisson Collection, Srinagar, where the league’s format and strategic vision were unveiled.
Addressing the media, Surinder Khanna, former Indian cricketer and league mentor, said the IHPL aims to nurture emerging cricket talent in J&K by offering young players mentorship from seasoned domestic and international cricketers.
Meanwhile in a statement issued by the organisers said the Kashmir is set to mark a major sporting milestone as the inaugural Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL), a two-week T20 tournament featuring international stars, ex-Ranji players, and local talent, is set to kicks off from next month.
Surinder Khanna,Ex Indian Cricketer & IHPL Mentor, said: “I first came to play cricket in Kashmir in 1972, and today, I am proud to return with a vision. From October 23 to November 7, this league will be a golden opportunity for the youth of J&K. With 50% of players selected through a fair and meticulous trial process, we aim to discover the next Umran Malik or Parvez Rasool, and give them a platform to shine.”
Ashu Dani, IHPL President, remarked: “We came to Kashmir for three things — sports, youth, and tourism. With eight teams playing six matches each, this league is designed to showcase new rising talent from Jammu & Kashmir while also putting the Valley on the cricketing map.”
The league President and former cricketer Ashudani detailed the structure of the tournament, stating that each team will play five league matches, with the top teams advancing to the semi-finals and a grand final.
Parminder Singh, Chairman of Yuva Society, the organising body of IHPL, highlighted the broader impact of the league, saying it would not only promote youth empowerment but also enhance the sporting landscape of the region while drawing tourists to Jammu and Kashmir.
“The IHPL is more than just a tournament; it is a movement to create a professional and inspiring cricket ecosystem that showcases the vibrant potential of our youth and the stunning beauty of Jammu and Kashmir,” Singh said
