Baramulla, September 8, 2025 – Former Indian cricket captain Mohammad Azharuddin visited Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir, to guide and inspire budding cricketers during selection trials organized by the Indian Army in collaboration with the Human Aid Society and Dr. Ashai’s. The initiative aimed to identify and nurture young talent from the region, offering them professional guidance and exposure to elevate their cricketing skills.Azharuddin, renowned for his elegant batting and leadership in the 1990s, interacted with enthusiastic young players, sharing valuable tips and encouragement. The trials, held as part of the Army’s youth engagement efforts, saw significant participation from aspiring cricketers eager to showcase their abilities under the guidance of the former skipper. The event highlighted the potential of Kashmir’s youth in cricket and the need for sustained support to help them excel.
Speaking to reporters, Azharuddin emphasized the importance of an elected cricket body to ensure accountability and long-term development of the sport in Jammu and Kashmir. “You cannot run associations indefinitely through temporary committees. Elections are the only way to bring stability,” he said, pointing out that inadequate infrastructure remains a major hurdle. He noted the lack of proper stadiums, turf wickets, and training facilities, which discourages both players and sponsors.
“There is a lot of raw talent here, but talent without guidance and proper coaching fades away,” Azharuddin remarked.He praised the Indian Army’s efforts in creating cricket infrastructure in Baramulla but stressed the need for facilities matching national standards to sustain and expand the sport. Reflecting on Kashmir’s cricketing legacy, Azharuddin recalled how the Valley once hosted international teams like the West Indies and Australia, adding, “If a good match is organized here, ten to twenty thousand people will turn up to watch.”Addressing the young cricketers, Azharuddin urged them to play with dedication and passion. “The talent is here. With hard work, players from the region can reach domestic semi-finals and finals, and some can even break into the national side,” he encouraged.The trials were part of a broader initiative to foster sports in the region, with the Indian Army and Human Aid Society collaborating to provide platforms for youth to channel their energy and talent. The event also underscored the Army’s role in community engagement, with events like the ‘Jashn-e-Baramulla’ youth festival previously drawing notable figures like Azharuddin and Bollywood actress Dia Mirza.Azharuddin’s visit not only motivated the participants but also highlighted the untapped cricketing potential in Jammu and Kashmir, calling for greater investment in infrastructure and structured governance to nurture the region’s talent.
