New Delhi, Feb 18 (NationPress) On Wednesday, Jammu and Kashmir triumphed over Bengal by six wickets at the Bengal Cricket Academy ground in Kalyani, marking their first-ever journey to the Ranji Trophy final. BCCI President Mithun Manhas embraced a rare moment of joy, feeling elated as he witnessed this remarkable achievement.

“To be honest, it's an incredibly satisfying feeling due to the dedication that has gone into this from where they began in June 2021. I want to acknowledge the BCCI and particularly Jay (Shah) bhai for their unwavering support, which has propelled J&K cricket significantly forward,” he stated.

“Previously, we had made little progress, but once we came under the BCCI’s banner, everything began to change. The credit also belongs to the players for their resilience in clinching this victory. It’s astonishing that we’ve reached this point without a proper stadium in Jammu, which exemplifies our struggle.”

“I extend my congratulations to all the cricketers from J&K who have persevered despite the lack of facilities and support. Performing well in the final is crucial as it will transform everything in J&K positively. I am immensely grateful to the BCCI for their support,” Manhas expressed during an exclusive interview with IANS.

Before his presidency, Manhas was part of a sub-committee aimed at stabilizing the troubled JKCA, which had been in the spotlight for mismanagement and corruption. Significant changes initiated by Manhas included the establishment of a grassroots talent hunt.

This initiative is beginning to yield results, as demonstrated by Sunil Kumar’s outstanding performance, taking four wickets and helping bowl out Bengal for 99 in their second innings, which set the stage for J&K’s successful chase of 126 on day four.

“Although we lack a proper ground in Jammu and play on a college field, the BCCI has been indispensable in our development. J&K now has red soil wickets, with about ten red and black soil pitches available in Srinagar and Jammu. We’ve been practicing with SG Test balls, and our talent hunt started in April, allowing us to play cricket year-round.

“Sunil Kumar is a product of this talent search. He hails from a small village, and the challenges faced by both boys and girls in J&K have been immense. However, I believe this will change the landscape of cricket in J&K. We are hopeful of developing several stadiums, ideally four to five grounds and one or two stadiums soon,” added Manhas, who has played domestic cricket for J&K and Delhi, amassing 9,714 runs in 157 first-class matches.

When Vanshaj Sharma secured the historic win for J&K with a six over Mukesh Kumar’s head, triggering joyous celebrations, Manhas felt a wave of emotion from his home.

“I was watching the match. My father was unwell, and I told him to go to the hospital while I stayed to witness this historic moment. It’s a great feeling that is hard to articulate. Even my mother called to share in this historic occasion,” he shared.

Manhas, who left Jammu as a young cricketer due to political interference that hindered his selection in the senior team, returned as a coach and player later in life. He described the transformation of the cricket association as personally significant.

“The most beneficial change for J&K was coming under the BCCI’s umbrella, granting us greater freedom. Although I faced criticism for appointing Ajay Sharma and Paras Dogra as coach and captain, respectively, I remained committed to supporting the boys without alterations. Previously, it was common for 30 to 40 players to participate in a season, but now that practice has ceased, resulting in a merit-based selection system.

“We now participate in tournaments like Buchi Babu and JP Atray, with other teams coming to J&K for matches, allowing us to select teams more effectively. The entire system has been revamped, and I’m thrilled that these boys have showcased their talents. They have worked diligently, and I commend them and the entire coaching staff, including Ajay Sharma, bowling coach P. Krishna Kumar, fielding coach Dishant Yagnik, and the management team, including Majid Dar from Srinagar who has been an invaluable asset.

“In Jammu, Brigadier Anil Gupta has efficiently managed the administration, supported by Vivek Khajuria. Their tireless efforts, along with those of the Cricket Advisory Committee, Abdul Qayyum, Vidya Bhaskar, and Meenu Salathia, have made this possible. It’s an incredibly emotional experience for everyone involved as J&K outshines all teams to reach the finals. It’s a proud and satisfying moment for all. Ultimately, this effort strengthens my resolve to elevate J&K and Indian cricket further,” elaborated Manhas.

Looking ahead, Manhas emphasized that while this milestone is significant, it is merely a starting point. “This achievement isn’t just for me; it’s also for the players who have dedicated their lives to cricket since J&K’s affiliation with the BCCI in 1957, playing their first Ranji Trophy match in 1959-60. J&K cricket has made immense strides since then.

“However, our goal remains to clinch the Ranji Trophy, establish an international stadium, and host international matches in J&K, which would greatly enhance the local cricketing landscape. The pursuit continues until we see both girls and boys from J&K in the Indian team, paving the way for future stars and role models,” he stated.

“Many aspiring cricketers look up to them, and achieving this would be monumental. This is just the beginning, and with God’s grace, I hope everything progresses favorably,” he concluded.

He also expressed gratitude towards current ICC Chairman Jay Shah, who, during his tenure as BCCI Secretary, was instrumental in assisting Manhas in promoting J&K cricket.

“I can’t thank Jay bhai enough for his support during the formation of the JKCA sub-committee. Many attempted to undermine my position within the JKCA due to my unwavering commitment to cricket. The backing I received from him was crucial, as he believed in my ability to facilitate change. I called him to express my gratitude, recognizing his vital role in advancing women’s cricket as well. When I proposed initiatives for girls’ cricket, he encouraged me, stating, ‘You must work for women’s cricket in J&K as well as across the country.’

“His assurance of BCCI’s support was invaluable because, without it, achieving goals becomes increasingly challenging. With the board’s backing, progress is possible,” he summarized.

J&K now awaits their next challenge against Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy final, set to take place from February 24 to 28, with Manhas aspiring for further success for the team.

“If we act appropriately, we will find a way to succeed. Sometimes, the path may seem unclear, but maintaining faith in divine guidance is essential. By following the right course, opportunities arise.

“When faced with adversity, we rise above it, and the support from J&K's people, who desire victory, is also a blessing. Altogether, everything has aligned well for J&K thus far, and I am hopeful for an even brighter future,” he concluded.