Manzoor Dar’s selection in IPL a big boost to J&K: Parveez Rasool

Manzoor Dar hasn’t had an easy road in his life. He worked as a security guard for over four years to support his family. He waited for years to make his debut for the state team – played for J&K in the Inter-state T20 tournament and the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The big news came in the IPL auction when he was snapped by the Kings XI Punjab for 20 lakhs.

Second player

Dar became only the second player after Jammu and Kashmir domestic captain Parveez Rasool to be a part of the IPL. Rasool has been an inspiration for the youngsters in the region after he became the first J&K player to represent India at the highest level. The veteran feels that cricket is changing for good in Kashmir and the administration is getting better.

“Now, we have seen some changes. There are open trials and there is a bit of fair selection. The under-22 team reached the quarterfinals and they beat teams like Mumbai, Punjab and Delhi. There is a ray of hope. We also won two matches in T20. Things are looking better for J&K cricket,” said Rasool as his team is plying trade in the ongoing Vijay Hazare one-day tournament.

This selection is a strong message to the youngsters that if you work hard you will get the reward. Rasool had blamed the administration in the past for not providing ample support to the players. The facilities have not up to the standard and players find it difficult to work in such an environment. The all-rounder is pinning hopes on the Committee of Administrators of the BCCI to improve the facilities in the State.

“In 2014 I played for India and that time I felt I would be an inspiration to J&K. But unfortunately, nothing happened. I was very disappointed,” Rasool added.

As a senior from the same team, he advised Dar to enjoy his game and take his chances because such opportunities do not come twice. He also believes that getting into the Indian team has become more difficult with the current bunch of players performing exceedingly well.