Bakshi Stadium packed for final battle of legends

Fans celebrate return of international cricket to Kashmir as Legends League Cricket tournament concludes

Srinagar: After a week of electrifying cricket action, Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar will once again fall quiet as the much-anticipated Legends League Cricket draws to its final stage.The final match is ongoing in the heart of Srinagar between Konark Suryas Odisha and Southern Superstars, attracting thousands of fans, and filling the stadium with what has been a memorable return of top-tier cricket to the region after decades.The stadium, which had been buzzing with excitement and energy since the beginning of the tournament last week, now faces a bittersweet farewell with the final match currently in the heart of the city.Spectators witnessed legendary cricket stars battle it out on Kashmiri soil for the first time in over 40 years, a memory that will remain in the hearts and minds of cricket enthusiasts and the Kashmiri people for a long time.For many residents, the LLC was more than just a cricket tournament, as it marked the revival of international sport that had long been absent from the valley.Mubashir, one of the young cricket fans, said, “History was made in Kashmir, and we had never imagined we would see cricket legends like Chris Gayle playing here in Srinagar.”Another local in his 60s said his children had only heard stories about big matches in Kashmir. “Now they got to witness it firsthand, and they are very happy,” he said while shouting and cheering for the final game as it unfolded.As the final game unfolded, cheers echoed through the packed stands. The crowd was seen waving flags and chanting for their favourites while watching every ball. “Seeing these cricket legends in our own city is a dream come true. I don’t want this excitement to end,” said Shuiab, a college student.It is worth mentioning that the Legends League (LLC) brought cricketing icons from across the globe to Srinagar, marking the revival of international cricket after four decades.The organisers and players alike expressed their appreciation for the overwhelming support from the local audience and administration—(KNO)