Srinagar, November 3 (Vijay Kumar)– Indian Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Dr. Farooq Abdullah who is also President of Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association has regretted non participation of Services team in the Ranji Trophy Cricket match which was scheduled to be played between Jammu and Kashmir and Services teams at Sheri-Kashmir Cricket Stadium today.
The Umpires and the Observers nominated by BCCI who were present on the ground awarded walk over to the Jammu and Kashmir and declared it the winners.
Dr. Abdullah expressed satisfaction on the immediate action of BCCI to debar the services team from playing the remaining matches of Ranji trophy.
He said that the matter shall be taken up with the Prime Minister, Defence Minister and other concerned agencies so that the matter is investigated. Referring to the recent visit of Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, UPA Chairperson Mrs. Sonia Gandhi and their assertion at the public meeting in Anantnag that there is a marked improvement in the situation in the valley he said that the decision of services team is highly condemned.
Dr. Abdullah said that all out efforts shall be made to improve the sports related infrastructure in the state so that all players are able to compete at National and International events.
An exhibition match was played by the players of Jammu and Kashmir at Sher-i-Kashmir Cricket Stadium which was witnessed by Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Advisor to Chief Minister, Mr. Mubarak Gul among others.
Jammu and Kashmir team shall play its next match against Haryana on 10th November at Sher-i-Kashmir Cricket Stadium and 3rd cricket match on November 17 against Kerala at Jammu.