Sparks From Valley

How many of you can recall the news of a Kashmiri cricketer detained by Bangalore Police for allegedly carrying RDX some three and half year ago. And what was your reaction then. Just to refresh your memories, in October 2009, a young cricketer from Kashmir valley, who was staying at Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bangalore in order to participate in under-22 CK Nayudu Cricket Tournament, was arrested by Bangalore Police after explosive detectors found traces of RDX in his kit bag. He was detained and questioned by Police and later, was released. Police told that there was traces of Explosives and perhaps the bag was used in the past for carrying explosives and that they were releasing the cricketer for the lack of evidence.

The allegations could have shattered a budding career, but that young guy did not loose heart and faith in his abilities.

Three and half years later, the same cricketer is selected to represent India in ODIs. Born in Anantnag, Parvez Rasool has become first cricketer from Kashmir valley to represent India. He is an all-rounder, but he impressed with his off-spins during Australia's recent tour of India. while representing Board President XI, he tool 7 wickets for only 45 runs and exposed Australian team's weakness against spin bowling, dented Ausies confidence and created platform for first ever whitewash.

Well, this is an area, where Cricket was beaten by Football. In football, a player from Kashmir valley has been representing India for several years. Pulwama born Meharajuddin Wadoo has been part of Indian National Team for many years and played key role in many a title triumphs like Nehru Cups - 2007, 2009 and AFC Challenge Cup 2008. He used to play as a Mid-fielder and I have been witnessed the support he derived from the spectators for every move on the field, during those title triumphs at Ambedkar Stadium. He was a key player in contemporary coach Bob Houghton's plans.

In i-League, Wadoo has represented East Bengal for several years, before moving to Salgaocar for one season and then again to Mohun Bagan last season.

For the youth of Kashmir valley, people like Shah Faisal, Mehrajuddin Wadoo and Parvez Rasool are real role models.