J&K cricketers doubtful for Vizzy Trophy after Article 370 abrogation

The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) had earlier registered its team for the tournament, but now with a security clampdown, its participation in the tournament seems doubtful.

Srinagar under curfew

After the Indian government decided to abrogate Article 370 which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, there has been a curfew in the valley, along with a communication blackout.
 

Consequentially, the participation of cricketers from Jammu and Kashmir in the Vizzy Trophy which begins in Vishakapatnam from August 22 in doubt.

The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) had earlier registered its team for the tournament, but now with a security clampdown, it is not sure whether it will finally be able to send its players for the prestigious tournament.

READ : World Cup winners Wasim, Amir yet to speak to their families in Kashmir

With not much time in hand, the JKCA administrator, Justice (retired) CK Prasad, on Thursday, wrote to Jammu and Kashmir governor, Satya Pal Malik, requesting him to help the association in sending the cricketers to Visakhapatnam.

In his email to the governor - which  Sportstar  has access to - Justice Prasad wrote: "I may inform your Excellency that JKCA Cricket team has consented to participate in Vizzy Trophy Cricket Tournament schedule to be held at Vishakhapatnam from August 22, 2019 and for that purpose (we) selected players who hail from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir. As originally planned the team was to leave the state on 20th August, 2019.We are finding it difficult to arrange for the movement of the players. May I have the permission to request Your Excellency to help us to send JKCA Cricket Team for participation in the aforesaid Trophy?"

READ : Players from Ladakh can represent Jammu and Kashmir for now in Ranji Trophy

In his letter, the administrator has also said that the governor's office will be provided necessary support by the JKCA CEO, Ashiq Bukhari, and captain Parvez Rasool. Later, speaking to this publication, Justice Prasad also revealed that that on Friday, the association CEO will try to meet the governor and appraise him of the situation.

"We want the cricketers to play the tournament and we will decide on the future course of action, once we have more clarity," Prasad said.

One of the organisers of the Vizzy Trophy, told this publication that they are yet to hear anything from the JKCA.

"We are in touch with the officials from the JKCA and we hope the players can reach Visakhapatnam for the tournament," they said.