In a pivotal advancement for promoting women’s cricket in the area, the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) has designated former Indian cricketer Latika Kumari Sangwan as the new coach for their senior women’s squad. This decision demonstrates JKCA’s robust dedication to nurturing local talent that holds the promise to thrive on an international stage.
Latika Kumari, who is now 42 years old, made her international entrance for India against England on June 11, 2009, during India’s inaugural match in the ICC T20 Women’s World Cup. She participated in six matches for the nation, all in the T20 format, achieving her highest score of 36 against Bangladesh.
Mithun Manhas, who is responsible for Cricket Operations and Development at JKCA, emphasized Latika’s extensive experience and coaching skills, acknowledging her vital contribution to shaping J&K’s aspiring cricketers. He commended the recent successes of the senior women’s and U-15 squads in national competitions.
“Women’s cricket in J&K is certainly on the rise. We have generated a substantial number of players who have represented JKCA in the North Zone, Challenger Trophy, and NCA Camps. Now, JKCA aims to cultivate players for India and the IPL, so we have enlisted a former international cricketer and coach to develop our athletes,” stated Manhas (sourced from statetimes.in).
In line with their initiatives, JKCA is gearing up to construct a cutting-edge cricket facility in Jammu, complete with contemporary amenities and training resources to foster cricketing talent.
In recent times, J&K’s senior women’s squad made history by advancing to the knockout phase of the Senior Women’s One-Day Trophy in the 2021-22 season. Likewise, the U-15 women’s team clinched a place in the knockout stage of the U-15 Women’s One-Day Trophy during the 2023-24 season.
Following the appointment of a three-member Sub Committee by the BCCI to oversee JKCA in 2021, as per a directive from the J&K High Court, the association has made swift progress. The JKCA has focused on infrastructure enhancement and established high-quality cricket academies across the Union Territory.
The BCCI earlier sanctioned plans to create indoor cricket academies in northeastern states, Patna, and Jammu. The academy in Jammu will include a year-round cricket facility with four wickets, a gym, a cafeteria, changing rooms, a massage room, a lounge, an ice bath facility, and additional features, delivering comprehensive support for athlete growth.
Image Source: Latika Kumari Sangwan @ Instagram
