Jammu: The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) on Thursday clarified that a cricket league which came under controversy after a player was seen wearing a Palestine flag on his helmet during a local match in Jammu is not recognised by the association. The clarification came amid reports that the player and the organiser of the tournament have been called in for police questioning, as authorities probe the unauthorised event.
The controversy erupted after images and videos circulated on social media showing a player, identified as Furqan Bhat, wearing a helmet bearing the Palestine flag while batting in a match of the Jammu and Kashmir Champions League, which began on December 29. The visuals quickly went viral, prompting police to rush to the venue and initiate an inquiry into the league and the circumstances surrounding the incident.
JKCA distances itself from the tournament
Reacting to the developments, the JKCA categorically distanced itself from the league. Brigadier Anil Gupta (Retd), Member (Administration) of the JKCA, told IANS that the association has no connection with the tournament.
“The league is not recognised by the JKCA,” Brig Gupta said, adding that the player involved was not registered with the JKCA or any of its affiliated bodies in Jammu and Kashmir.
Officials emphasised that only tournaments conducted under the aegis of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and its affiliated state associations are considered authorised. Participation in unrecognised tournaments is not permitted under BCCI regulations, particularly for registered players.
Police questioning player and organiser
According to reports, Furqan Bhat has been called in by the police along with Zahid Bhat, the organiser of the Jammu and Kashmir Champions League, for questioning. Police sources said the inquiry is focused on two aspects — the circumstances under which the controversial symbol was displayed during the match, and the legality of organising a cricket league without official sanction.
Police officials confirmed that an investigation has been launched into the unauthorised tournament after the images gained traction online. While no formal charges have been announced so far, officials said statements are being recorded to ascertain whether any laws or regulations were violated.
Authorities are also examining whether proper permissions were obtained to conduct the tournament and whether players were misled about the status and recognition of the league.
BCCI rules on unauthorised leagues
The BCCI maintains strict guidelines regarding participation in unauthorised or privately run tournaments. Players registered with state associations or affiliated units are prohibited from playing in leagues that do not have official recognition.
Cricket administrators pointed out that unauthorised leagues often lack regulatory oversight, financial safeguards, and player protection mechanisms, exposing participants to exploitation and disputes.
In the present case, JKCA officials reiterated that neither the tournament nor the players involved had any official backing from the association, making it clear that the body bears no responsibility for the incident.
Second league under scanner in J&K
This is the second privately-run cricket league in Jammu and Kashmir to come under scrutiny in recent months. Earlier, the Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL), organised in Srinagar, collapsed mid-way under controversial circumstances.
The IHPL began on October 25 at the Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar and was projected as a high-profile tournament featuring international cricketers such as Chris Gayle, Martin Guptill, and Thisara Perera. The league was scheduled to host 27 matches and conclude on November 8.
However, the tournament came to an abrupt halt after just 12 matches. Organisers of the IHPL, reportedly run by the Mohali-based Yuva Society, allegedly fled Srinagar on November 1, leaving players, match officials, broadcasters, and hotel operators in distress.
Players left stranded after IHPL collapse
The sudden collapse of the IHPL left around 70 cricketers stranded, including former Indian players Praveen Kumar, Iqbal Abdullah, and Parvez Rasool. Umpires, production crew, and support staff were also affected, with several alleging non-payment of dues.
The league had featured eight teams — Pulwama Titans, Ladakh Heroes, Srinagar Sultans, Kishtwar Giants, Gulmarg Royals, Patnitop Warriors, Jammu Lions, and Uri Panthers. Following the organisers’ disappearance, the episode drew national attention and raised serious questions about the regulation of private cricket leagues in the region.
Growing concerns over unauthorised tournaments
Cricket administrators and former players have expressed concern over the growing number of unrecognised leagues being organised without oversight, particularly in regions where young players are eager for exposure and opportunities.
Experts warn that such tournaments can not only jeopardise players’ careers but also create law and order issues if controversies arise. They have called for greater awareness among players and stricter enforcement to prevent unauthorised events.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the Jammu and Kashmir Champions League has once again highlighted the risks associated with unrecognised cricket tournaments. With the JKCA firmly distancing itself from the league and police probing both the organiser and the player involved, the incident has sparked a wider debate on the need for tighter regulation and accountability. As investigations continue, cricket authorities are expected to reiterate guidelines to players and organisers to ensure that the sport is conducted within the framework of recognised and lawful structures.