In a remarkable turn of events, the Kashmir University (KU) cricket team has secured a coveted spot in the semi-finals of the ongoing North Zone Inter-University Cricket Tournament (Men) at Himachal Pradesh (HP) University, Shimla.
Defeating the formidable Punjab University, Chandigarh by a margin of 21 runs, KU has etched its name in history as the first team to advance to the semi-finals from the region in nearly two decades, an official statement issued here read.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, team Kashmir University put up a score of 160/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Mujeeb-ul-Haq emerged as the top scorer with 44 runs off 34 balls, supported by Mohammad Hurair and Yasir Hamid who contributed 33 and 22 runs, respectively. The bowlers from Punjab University, Chandigarh, Sahil and Sehbaz Singh, claimed 3 wickets each.
In response, Punjab University, Chandigarh managed to score only 139 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Ayush Sikka was the top scorer for Chandigarh with 44 runs. Faizan Rouf led the bowling attack for Kashmir University, taking 4 wickets, while Mehran Nisar and Javed Ahmad (Jaddu) secured 2 wickets each.
This historic achievement marks Kashmir University's return to the semi-finals after a hiatus of 19 years, underscoring the team's perseverance and dedication, the statement read.
In her message, Vice-Chancellor, KU, Prof Nilofer Khan, extended her heartfelt congratulations to the team for their exceptional performance, read the statement.
"The KU cricket team's journey to the semi-finals stands as a testament to their hardwork, determination and passion for the sport," she said, adding that it is a moment of pride that the KU cricket team has brought to the entire university community, the statement read.
KU Registrar, Prof Naseer Iqbal, echoed similar sentiments, commending the team for their outstanding efforts on the field.
"As they continue to make strides in the tournament, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of the entire university community," Prof Naseer said in the statement.
Coordinator, Directorate of Physical Education and Sports, Dr Nadeem Ahmad Dar, expressed his delight at the team's success, attributing it to their collective teamwork and determination, the statement read further.
He acknowledged the support and encouragement extended by the university administration, particularly the Vice Chancellor and Registrar "for their unwavering belief in the team and their commitment to providing necessary resources and support," further read the statement.