Pulwama witnessed a historic moment as thousands gathered to watch the first-ever day-night cricket match in south Kashmir, an event hailed as a “new inning” for the valley’s youth. The inaugural clash of the Royal Premier League was played at the Pulwama Sports Stadium under floodlights, featuring Royal Goodwill against Sultan Springs Baramulla.
The tournament, comprising 12 teams from across Jammu and Kashmir, has already struck a chord with locals eager to see sport reclaim its place in the region. Among the spectators was PDP legislator Waheed-ur-Rehman Para, who described the match as a landmark occasion.
Calling it the “start of a new inning” for Kashmiri youngsters, he underlined how sports could serve as a “bridge of hope and opportunity” in a region long troubled by conflict and uncertainty.
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“This is more than just a cricket match; it is a celebration of aspirations,” Para said, reflecting on the enthusiastic crowd. He pointed out that Pulwama, along with Anantnag, Kulgam, and Shopian, was once considered a stronghold of militancy and separatist politics. Holding a high-profile cricket tournament under lights in Pulwama, he stressed, was symbolic of shifting narratives and new possibilities for youth engagement.
#WATCH | J&K | People turn up in large numbers to watch the first-ever Day-Night Royal Premier League in Pulwama.
The Royal Premier League features 12 teams from across Jammu and Kashmir. (25.08) pic.twitter.com/bPscFJCImx
— ANI (@ANI) August 26, 2025
Para further emphasized that the full house at the stadium reflected the hunger for positive change. “This is a youth-led initiative, with organizers, promoters, and players drawn from across Jammu and Kashmir. Our goal is to channel the energy of our youngsters away from drugs, depression, and unemployment, and give them hope through cricket,” he noted.
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Organisers echoed his sentiment, stating that the Royal Premier League is designed to promote local cricketing talent and provide youngsters with a professional platform to showcase their skills. They confirmed that the tournament will extend to every district in the valley.
For the thousands who packed the Pulwama stadium, the evening meant more than just cricket. It was about reclaiming a sense of togetherness, joy, and hope under the floodlights — a powerful reminder of how sport can inspire change in the heart of Kashmir.
