BCCI President Mithun Manhas on 1 October 2026 called the return of high-profile cricket to the Kashmir Valley after nearly four decades a 'matter of great joy', expressing hope that Jammu and Kashmir would host more domestic fixtures and, eventually, international matches. The occasion: the Irani Cup clash between Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir and the Rest of India at the iconic Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar.

A Historic Return to Srinagar

The Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium last hosted a match of comparable stature on 9 September 1986, when India faced Australia in a One-Day International — nearly 40 years ago. The Irani Cup fixture marks the most significant return of elite cricket to the Valley since that landmark ODI. Manhas, speaking to reporters after Day 1, underscored the emotional weight of the occasion.

'I would only want more matches to come here. A match of this level is happening after almost four decades, so it is a matter of great joy. Cricket has returned to the Valley like this,' he said.

BCCI's Commitment to J&K Cricket

The BCCI president confirmed that the Board would extend full support to the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) in developing facilities and securing larger fixtures. 'From the Board's side, the effort will remain, and full support from the Board will be there for the JKCA as well, so that they can host matches on a bigger scale and also bring international games,' Manhas said.

Notably, he stressed that infrastructure development should not be limited to the two major cities. 'This responsibility belongs to the state association, because it is their prerogative that a stadium is built here, not just here, but in Jammu, in Chenab Valley, in Rajouri-Poonch, wherever it is under their jurisdiction. They must definitely provide grounds there, and efforts should be made to have stadiums in both Jammu and Srinagar,' he said.

Auqib Nabi — A Symbol of J&K's Cricketing Rise

Manhas pointed to Auqib Nabi, the Baramulla-born pacer who recently earned an India ODI call-up after consistent performances in domestic cricket, as proof of the region's burgeoning talent pool. 'The message is very simple. Be sincere to yourself and work hard. Recently, you saw Auqib Nabi being selected, which proves that no matter where you come from, you can make it. His story from Baramulla is very inspiring,' he said.

The BCCI president added a direct appeal to young cricketers across the Union Territory: 'There are also players who have not yet come to the forefront but have similar stories. So, keep working hard. If you are talented, hardworking and determined, you can certainly play for the country.'

Day 1 Scorecard and What Lies Ahead

On the field, Jammu and Kashmir opted to bowl first and dismissed Rest of India for 237, with Sunil Kumar and Lone Nasir Muzaffar claiming three wickets each. The hosts, however, found themselves in trouble at stumps, reduced to 21 for 2 — trailing by 216 runs — after a strong late-day fightback by the Rest of India attack.

Manhas was measured about the contest's trajectory: 'We will see how both teams play in tomorrow morning's session, which will be very important. After that, there will be some clarity on the direction the match is likely to take.' Day 2's opening session is set to prove pivotal in shaping the outcome of this landmark encounter.