ISLAMABAD - The Kashmir Premier League (KPL) on Saturday announced that the players drafting would take place on July 3. The national, international and emerging players would be selected through drafting. This was announced at a colorful ceremony of the league held here. On the occasion, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Omar Ayub, President KPL Arif Malik and CEO Chaudhry Shehzad along with team franchise owners were also present on the occasion. Omar said the league is going to become a big event. “A curfew is in place in the Indian Occupied Kashmir whereas KPL is taking place in AJK. KPL will portray a message to the world of what is happening in IIOJK and AJK,” he said. Chairman Kashmir Committee Shehryar Afridi said there was no ambiguity in organizing KPL as the Government of Pakistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) are fully supporting the league.
“We did not see which political party was in power when the idea of KPL came up as we did not make it a political issue. When no one in the world knew about Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, they proved their worth by displaying top performances. The children of Kashmir will also get the opportunity from KPL to prove their mettle,” he said.
“Top international footballer Cristiano Ronaldo changed Portugal through his performances therefore we also need to work on our heroes. “KPL would also prove to be a successful league, it was just the beginning. Young budding players will get a chance to prove their mettle as two players will get a chance to play in each match,” he said.
KPL President Arif Malik said the aim of the league was to bring young budding talent to fore and to spread the positive image of Pakistan all over the world through KPL. “After KPL, a high performance center will also be set up in AJK for players. Athletes will also be trained at the center. Two Kashmiri youths would be a part of the playing XI in each team and will have the best opportunity to show their talent. He said PCB has also approved the league. “KPL and AJK government have too signed an agreement for Muzaffarabad Cricket Stadium after which it will remain with KPL for 13 years.”