Srinagar, Dec 31 (KNO): Sports in Jammu and Kashmir have thrived on raw talent and resilience for decades despite limited infrastructure and exposure. However, in 2025, that approach changed as potential turned into recognition, systems began delivering results, and athletes made their mark nationally and globally. This year-ender, based on months of on-ground reporting by the news agency – Kashmir News Observer (KNO) correspondents – Jahangeer Ganaie, Waris Fayaz and Rehan Qayoom Mir – captures the moments and milestones that redefined J&K’s sporting journey.
At the heart of this sporting renaissance stood Baramulla pacer Auqib Nabi Dar, whose Rs 8.40 crore IPL auction deal with Delhi Capitals did more than rewrite record books.
Auqib Nabi Dar: The Moment That Changed Everything
When the auction hammer fell, sealing Auqib Nabi Dar’s fate with Delhi Capitals for Rs 8.40 crore, history was made. The 28-year-old right-arm pacer became the most expensive IPL buy from Jammu & Kashmir.
Ranji Trophy Returns to Srinagar
Another highlight of 2025 was the return of Ranji Trophy cricket to Srinagar, with Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar hosting the season opener against Mumbai.
Youth Engagement Reaches Record High
Away from headlines and auctions, the numbers told an equally powerful story. Over 61 lakh youth participated in sports activities across J&K in one year, according to official data accessed by KNO.
In medal tallies alone, J&K athletes delivered standout performances:
2023–24: 549 national medals, 16 international medals
2024–25: 639 national medals, 15 international medals
Gulmarg: India’s Winter Sports Capital
While sports in summer thrived on fields and courts, winter sports flourished on snow. The Khelo India Winter Games firmly established Gulmarg as the country’s winter sports capital.
Young Achievers Shine Globally
2025 also belonged to teenagers who carried J&K’s flag overseas.
17-year-old Nasir Aijaz Sufi from Sopore clinched bronze at the ISF World School Volleyball Championship in China.
In martial arts, Kupwara’s Rashid Shafi struck gold at a Wushu championship in Sweden.
MMA fighter Owais Yaqoob secured a dominant first-round victory at BRAVE CF 103 in Uzbekistan.
Institutional Growth and Inclusion
Behind these achievements stood expanding institutional support. Academies for football, volleyball, wushu, hockey, gymnastics and water sports continued to grow. The Gymnastics Academy at MA Stadium, Jammu, operated at international standards, while Srinagar’s Gindun Stadium facility neared completion.
A Year That Redefined Belief
2025 was a year when systems met talent, when belief replaced doubt, and when success stories inspired more participation rather than isolated celebration.
As Auqib Nabi Dar prepares for the IPL spotlight and hundreds of youngsters lace up their boots across J&K, one thing is clear: Jammu & Kashmir sport is no longer knocking on the door; it has stepped firmly inside—(KNO)