SRINAGAR, April 17 -- Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan on Thursday said Kashmir's youth have unmatched passion for cricket, but lack consistent opportunities and infrastructure to excel.

Speaking at the launch of the EPIC Victory Cricket League (EVCL) in Srinagar, Pathan said the new league aims to bridge this gap and bring raw talent into the spotlight.

"I have seen it firsthand - a left-arm pacer from Kupwara, boys from Baramulla. they have fire in them. What's missing is the exposure and proper training," Pathan said during the press conference at Hotel Radisson.

He said the EVCL will provide a much-needed platform for young players not just in J&K, but also from states like Uttar Pradesh and Punjab.

The league, he added, will ...