Himachal Pradesh’s Paras Dogra is set to play for Jammu and Kashmir in the upcoming domestic season and is likely to lead them in the Buchi Babu Tourney, which is scheduled later this month, KSW has learnt from sources.
The right-handed batter was one of the highest run-getters for Himachal Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy before he switched to Pondicherry last year. He has 9604 runs under his belt but is way past his prime, aged 39.
His entry into J&K has come as a shock since it indicates that JKCA believes the state lacks talent. Also, the idea of an outside player leading J&K has miserably failed in the past.
While Paras will bring experience to the table, the question, however, is about the future of J&K cricket. The question is despite showing huge improvements a few seasons ago, does J&K still need an outside professional or it is just JKCA trying different things?
Meanwhile, the senior men’s shortlisted players are currently holding fitness camps in Jammu and Kashmir provinces, respectively. J&K is to play in the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA)-organized Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament– a multi-day formatted event–which begins on August 15.
