Jammu Set to Host YSS-JKSC Football and Cricket Premier Leagues in February
Grassroots tournaments aim to revive competitive sports and spotlight local talent in Jammu Division
J&K, Jan 29 : Jammu is set to host the YSS-JKSC Football and Cricket Premier Leagues from early next month, marking a renewed push to strengthen grassroots sports and revive professional level competition in the region, officials said on Thursday.
Organised by the Department of Youth Services and Sports in association with the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, the twin leagues are designed to create a structured platform for emerging athletes while reinvigorating the city’s sporting culture.
Matches will be held at the Synthetic Turf Football Ground at Parade and the historic M A Stadium, with cricket returning to the latter after a long gap. Officials described the initiative as a significant step towards restoring Jammu’s prominence in organised football and cricket.
To ensure smooth and professional conduct, dedicated organising and sub-committees have been formed, comprising former national and international players, coaches, referees, umpires, club representatives and JKSC officials.
The football league will feature 41 matches, while the cricket tournament will include 39 games. The final format and match schedules will be announced after the participating teams are confirmed.
Participation will be restricted to permanent residents of the Jammu Division, reinforcing the leagues’ local focus. In cricket, teams will be allowed a maximum of five out station players to maintain competitive balance while prioritising regional talent.
Grand opening and closing ceremonies are planned to enhance the event’s visibility. Several matches will be played under floodlights and streamed live on social media platforms to reach a wider audience.
AIFF-accredited referees and BCCI-certified umpires will officiate the games, ensuring high standards of competition.
Officials expressed confidence that the leagues would draw strong spectator interest and provide aspiring sportspersons from Jammu with valuable exposure and opportunities to progress to national and international platforms.
