New Delhi, March 5 ICC Chairman Jay Shah said on Thursday that Jammu and Kashmir's recent Ranji Trophy victory reflected the impact of "sustained investment" in developing cricket infrastructure in the Himalayan region.
Jammu and Kashmir won their maiden Ranji Trophy title, holding eight-time champions Karnataka to a draw in which the former gained a 291-run first innings lead at Hubballi last week.
"Congratulations to the entire J&K team and the cricket fraternity for scripting a remarkable chapter in Indian domestic cricket. Their progress reflects the positive impact of sustained investment in grassroots cricket and infrastructure in the region," said Shah after meeting members of the victorious J&K outfit.
Shah had taken a special interest in developing the cricket landscape in the valley during his tenure as BCCI Secretary, often visiting the region to assess the progress.
The J&K team acknowledged Shah's contribution to the development of cricket in the region.
"We sincerely thank Mr. Shah for taking the time to meet the team and for sharing his words of encouragement with the players as they celebrate this historic achievement."
"The interaction highlighted the progress made by the team and the growing opportunities for players from Jammu & Kashmir in domestic cricket," the team said in a release.
Earlier, BCCI President Mithun Manhas had highlighted Shah's role in developing cricket in J&K.
"We are very thankful to Jai bhai and his vision, the way he made this committee, keeping in mind the administration part, the cricketing part, and involving the right players.
"He was the first secretary in the history of J&K in 67 years to come to Jammu and see the facilities himself. Once he was there and he showed us his full support, things started moving in the right direction," he had said.
