Suhail Khan
Baramulla, Oct 29: Mel Juniper, a qualified cricket coach and umpire from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), has praised the “high energy and skill level” of Kashmiri cricketers, stating that the gap between local and international players is not vast.
Speaking exclusively to Kashmir Convener during a Kashmir Premier Women’s League (KWPL) match at the Bipin Rawat Stadium in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, where she was the chief guest, Juniper highlighted the positive atmosphere surrounding the event.
“It’s great to see how much the girls are enjoying their cricket here. The energy among them is quite uplifting,” Juniper said.
She stated that player development hinges on consistent effort. “The difference isn’t huge between the girls here in Kashmir and those abroad. It’s about playing hard, training hard, and treating every game as an opportunity to build skills,” Juniper said.
She added that the same principle applies to umpiring, noting that while one may not be perfect initially, improvement comes with continuous practice through matches and training.
Addressing aspiring cricketers, Juniper stressed the importance of balance and enjoyment. “It’s important to balance your studies with your cricket practice. Enjoying the game helps you stay motivated and improves your performance. Every session should feel rewarding, not like a chore,” she advised.
Pertinently, Juniper also commended the ongoing Indian Heaven Premier League at Bakshi Stadium, where she is serving as an official umpire, stating that the tournament is progressing very well.
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