Neighbours and relatives have been streaming into the home of para-cricketer Shakoor Bashir in Gadihama village of Kulgam district, celebrating his selection for the Indian Para Cricket League (IPCL) 2026.
Shakoor was picked by the Delhi franchise for Rs 2.75 lakh at the IPCL auction held on August 5, marking a significant milestone in the career of the young cricketer, who has represented Jammu and Kashmir in several national-level tournaments.
“I feel on cloud nine after learning about my selection. It is a proud moment for me and my family,” Shakoor said.
For Shakoor, the selection is the latest chapter in a journey that began despite a physical disability in his foot that he was born with. He has undergone multiple surgeries over the years, but the challenges did not keep him away from the cricket field.
“I have been playing in national tournaments since 2022,” he said.
A student of the Islamic University of Science and Technology, Shakoor is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Anaesthesia and Operation Theatre Technology. Alongside his studies, he has travelled to several states to participate in national para-cricket tournaments.
His recent performances have further strengthened his credentials. In a tournament in Bihar, where he represented Jammu and Kashmir against Uttar Pradesh, Shakoor took a hat-trick and scored 38 runs off just 18 balls, showcasing his ability with both bat and ball.
The IPCL selection has brought a wave of excitement to Gadihama, where residents have followed his cricketing journey closely.
Family members and neighbours said Shakoor’s achievement was particularly inspiring because he continued to pursue the sport despite undergoing multiple surgeries and facing physical challenges from an early age.
For Shakoor, however, the auction is not the destination but another step towards a larger goal.
“I want to make the most of this opportunity and prove myself in the league. My aim is to represent the country at the highest level,” he said.
His selection has also brought renewed attention to para-cricket in Jammu and Kashmir, where players with disabilities are increasingly finding opportunities to compete at the national level.
As celebrations continue at his home, Shakoor is already looking ahead to the next challenge, making his mark for Delhi in the IPCL.
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