Kulgam, Jan 08: A young fast bowler from South Kashmir has made J&K proud by clinching a gold medal in the India–Bangladesh–Nepal tri-series held in Nepal.
Syed Muntazir, a fast bowler hailing from the far-flung Khurbatpora village of Damhal Hanjipora in Kulgam, was part of the Indian team that emerged victorious in the tennis ball cricket tri-series featuring Bangladesh and Nepal.
The tournament marked Muntazir’s first international appearance, where India went on to clinch the title, with the Kulgam youth playing a key role in the tournament.
Syed Muntazir said, “First of all, I thank Almighty Allah who enabled me to reach this level. Recently, I played an international tri-series in which India emerged victorious. Three teams—India, Bangladesh and Nepal—participated in the tournament.”
He said India’s first match was a semi-final against Bangladesh, in which he got an opportunity to play and was adjudged Man of the Match. “Earlier, I played four national-level tournaments. In one of them, the Kashmir team won a gold medal and I was the captain of that side,” he said.
Muntazir said the tri-series was played with a tennis ball, noting that tennis-ball cricket has gained huge popularity in recent years. “Earlier, most players preferred hard-ball cricket, but over the last two to three years, several soft-ball leagues have been organised, increasing its scope and popularity,” he said.
Highlighting the lack of sports infrastructure in his area, he said cricket facilities are almost non-existent. “There is no proper ground nearby, and players have to travel to other villages for practice. If proper grounds are developed, many more players from the area can come forward and showcase their talent,” he said.
He acknowledged the support of his family and friends in his journey and said he believes in continuous hard work. “The future in this field is bright, and with dedication, success will continue to come,” Muntazir added—(KNO)
