ISLAMABAD: The Kashmir Supreme League (KSL) 2025 was officially launched in a grand and star-studded ceremony at a local hotel on Saturday, marking the beginning of what promises to be a groundbreaking cricketing event.
The dazzling ceremony was graced by dignitaries and cricketing legends. The Patron-in-Chief of KSL and former Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Sardar Tanvir Ilyas Khan, alongside the visionary Founder Chairman of KSL, Sardar Masood Ahmad Khan, formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), sealing their partnership and shared vision for KSL 2025.
Adding immense star power to the event were former Pakistani Test cricketers, including Shahid Khan Afridi, who has taken on the role of Brand Ambassador for KSL-25, as well as Muhammad Hafeez, Shahid Nazir, and Abdul Razzaq.
Addressing the audience, Sardar Masood Ahmad Khan emphasized that the KSL aims to go far beyond cricket.
“While our primary goal is to unearth and showcase local cricketing talent, the league also seeks to promote the vibrant culture, heritage, and tourism potential of Azad Kashmir to the world,” he remarked.
Sardar Tanvir Ilyas Khan unveiled key details of the inaugural season, announcing that six dynamic teams will participate in the tournament. Representing Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Bagh, Mirpur, Rawalakot, and Gilgit-Baltistan, the teams will compete from May 24 to June 14, in what is expected to be a thrilling display of cricketing excellence.
He further shared that the KSL will serve as a launchpad for emerging cricketers, offering them a platform to shine on both national and international stages.
Each team will feature four national-level players and one internationally renowned cricketer, blending fresh talent with seasoned expertise.
In a moving moment of solidarity, the audience stood for a one-minute silence in remembrance and support of the people of Kashmir and Palestine, a gesture initiated by Sardar Tanvir.
The event also featured the playing of the national anthem of Pakistan and the anthem of Kashmir, adding emotional and patriotic fervor to the occasion.
Speaking to the media, Afridi expressed his deep connection with the region. “Kashmir holds a special place in my heart. It’s an honor to be the Brand Ambassador for KSL and I am thrilled to be part of this inspiring initiative,” he said.
Hafeez echoed similar sentiments, expressing confidence in the league’s success.
“I have always had a special bond with Kashmir. I truly believe that KSL-25 will not only be a cricketing triumph but also a powerful cultural movement.”
With an ambitious vision, a strong lineup of teams, and the support of cricketing legends, the Kashmir Supreme League 2025 is set to usher in a new era of sports, unity, and regional pride.