Sport · India Bureau
Srinagar prepares for historic Irani Cup with enhanced crowd management
The Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association has implemented strict capacity controls and monitoring measures ahead of the 2026 Irani Cup in Srinagar, ensuring the event proceeds smoothly unlike a controversial 1983 match between India and the West Indies.
LSN India ·
Srinagar's cricket ground is set to host the prestigious Irani Cup in 2026, marking a significant moment for Kashmir's sporting infrastructure. The Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) has put in place comprehensive measures to ensure the event unfolds without incident, drawing lessons from cricket's troubled history in the region.
A key measure involves capping stadium attendance at 5,000, a deliberate constraint designed to maintain orderly conduct during the tournament. The restricted capacity represents a careful balance between providing spectators access to international cricket while maintaining security and operational control.
Beyond capacity limits, JKCA officials will implement active monitoring of spectators throughout the stadium to prevent any recurrence of past incidents. This layered approach to crowd management reflects the association's commitment to hosting a world-class event while respecting the sensitivities surrounding previous cricket matches held in Srinagar.
The preparation for the Irani Cup demonstrates Kashmir's renewed focus on reclaiming its place in India's cricket calendar. With enhanced protocols now in place, the 2026 tournament is positioned as an opportunity to build positive sporting memories and showcase the region's passion for the game.