Stadium transformed into dance floor
Srinagar, Oct 27: The “Universe Boss”, Chris Gayle brought Bakhshi Stadium alive on Monday evening as he stepped onto Kashmir’s soil to bat for the the ongoing Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL).
What began as a low-attendance afternoon, soon turned into a festive evening as the crowd swelled and music filled the stands, with Gayle’s appearance.
Though the turnout was initially modest, with only a few hundred spectators occupying the stands, the atmosphere shifted dramatically when Gayle walked out to bat.
Within minutes, the crowd grew to an estimated 2,000–4,000 as fans poured in, waving sweaters, dancing and shouting his name. With the music turning crazy, several were seen standing on seats and railings, phones raised high to capture the moment.
Eyewitnesses told KNO the league officials later decided to open the stadium gates to the public, allowing free entry in a bid to fill the stands and ensure the cricketers received the reception he deserved, while the majority of stands remained empty a patch of stands got filled.
“The moment Chris Gayle stepped on the field, the ground erupted,” said a local fan from Srinagar’s old city. “We have only watched him on TV, but seeing him live in Kashmir feels unbelievable.”
As Gayle took guard, chants of “Gayle! Gayle!” echoed through the air. Every short strike drew thunderous applause and when he hit a six, the “Universe Boss” spread his arms wide, acknowledging the cheering crowd, turning the IHPL into a full-blown celebration.
Meanwhile, on yesterday the Secretary, J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, who was present at the stadium, said Gayle’s participation represents a major milestone for sports in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Chris Gayle playing for Pulwama Titans is a proud moment for all of us. It reflects how far sports in J&K has come, from struggling for participation a few years ago to attracting global icons today,” Gul told KNO. She said leagues like IHPL are transforming into “community-owned movements” that engage youth positively and promote a healthy sports culture across districts.
“The inclusion of international stars like Gayle is not just about cricket, but it is about confidence, aspiration and showing the world the new face of J&K through sports,” she shared.
As the league process, with few matches held, the media present at the stadium expressed concern over poor arrangements. While the spectators cheered, media professionals covering the event expressed frustration over inadequate facilities.
Several journalists told KNO that the management seemed disorganized and failed to provide even basic amenities.
“We don’t even have a power point or a water bottle. There is no press enclosure or seating arrangement. We are sitting on the marble floor,” said a journalist, requesting anonymity.
He said the lack of coordination made it difficult to report smoothly, with no designated areas for cameras or interviews and even basic facilities for refreshment seemed out of reach for this league.
Notably, despite the glitches, the evening turned into a carnival once Gayle took charge with the bat. Fans were seen dancing to the background music, waving sweaters in the cold autumn breeze and chanting his name in unison.
Children climbed railings to catch a glimpse of the cricket icon, while security personnel struggled to contain the wave of excitement sweeping through the stands.
“It was a moment to remember,” said one of the spectators. “Gayle brought warmth to Srinagar’s cold evening,” he said.
It is important to mention, the match was played between Pulwama Titans and Patnitop Warriors, as part of the ongoing Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL). Notably, the high-energy encounter saw Patnitop Warriors post a total of 173 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs. Chasing the target, Pulwama Titans were anchored by the West Indies batting legend Chris Gayle, who turned back the clock with his game, including seven boundaries and one six—(KNO)
