𝐈𝐫𝐟𝐚𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐄𝐕𝐂𝐋 𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐊𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐢𝐫’𝐬 𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭

Srinagar, April 17 : Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan launched the EPIC Victory Cricket League (EVCL) at a press conference held at Radisson Rajbagh, highlighting Kashmir’s raw cricketing talent and the need to nurture it.

Scheduled to take place from June 15 to July 1, the EVCL aims to bring together budding cricketers from Jammu & Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and beyond, pairing them with experienced domestic players in a mentorship-driven format.

Pathan expressed his enthusiasm for launching the league in Kashmir, citing the region’s deep passion and untapped potential. “We saw last year how impactful it is when young players share the field with professionals. Kashmir needs and deserves such a platform,” he said.

He also emphasized the urgent need to improve cricket infrastructure in the Valley, especially advocating for the replacement of matting wickets with turf pitches.

Having previously visited Kupwara and Baramulla, Pathan recalled spotting standout talent, including a promising left-arm pacer. “The hunger and passion are there, but the opportunities are lacking,” he noted.

He also praised the emergence of female cricketers from the region and called for equal opportunities for boys through private leagues like EVCL.

Pathan concluded by underlining that while private efforts can make a difference, collaboration with cricket authorities is crucial to sustain and grow grassroots cricket in Kashmir.

The EVCL is being presented not just as a tournament, but as a broader initiative to empower young talent and turn potential into performance.