In a landmark achievement for Jammu and Kashmir, Asif Iqbal from Khanpora in Baramulla district has become the first individual from north Kashmir to umpire an international cricket match. Iqbal officiated as an on-field umpire in a thrilling tri-nation series match between Pakistan and Afghanistan, with Afghanistan clinching an 18-run victory.Asif Iqbal, affiliated with the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) and a member of the ICC International Development Panel since 2007, has officiated in prestigious tournaments such as the ACC Premier Cup, ACC Emerging Asia Cup, and ACC Women’s Premier Cup. His umpiring career spans One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) across countries like the UAE, Ireland, Afghanistan, the West Indies, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. Iqbal has also officiated in the International League T20 (ILT20 2024) and women’s cricket series featuring teams from Papua New Guinea, Scotland, the USA, and Hong Kong. Certified by both the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), Iqbal’s rise continues to inspire pride across Kashmir.
Commenting on this milestone, renowned commentator Kifayat Aftab told The Web Story/The Varmul Post, “Sport knows no barriers. It has transformed the landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, especially post the abrogation of Article 370. This is a proud moment for Kashmir, as our people shine on the international stage.”Youth leader Touseef Raina echoed this sentiment, stating, “Sport has rewritten Kashmir’s narrative, replacing stone-pelting with stories of success. Asif’s achievement, alongside martial arts star Musharaf Qayoom’s victory in Georgia last year, highlights Baramulla’s growing presence in global sports. This reflects a ‘Badalta Hua Kashmir’ (a changing Kashmir), where youth are excelling in a peaceful environment, even playing under floodlights.”
Local cricket coach Rayees Ahmad added, “For years, our youth chased dreams on makeshift grounds. Today, Asif stands on the world stage as a judge of the game, proving that passion can make any dream attainable.”Sports have played a pivotal role in reshaping Jammu and Kashmir, with athletes from the region earning opportunities in major platforms like the Indian Premier League (IPL) and even representing the Indian national team. Asif Iqbal’s journey as an ICC umpire marks a new chapter in Kashmir’s evolving sports legacy, showcasing the region’s hidden talent and its growing contribution to Indian and international sports.
