A Journey From Bijbehara to the Indian Jersey
By: Javid Amin | 20 October 2025
Parvez Rasool, the 36-year-old all-rounder from Bijbehara, Anantnag, has called time on his professional cricket career — but not on his story. When he formally notified the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of his retirement on October 19, 2025, it marked not just the end of a personal journey but the closing of a revolutionary chapter for Jammu & Kashmir cricket.
Born in a modest home in south Kashmir, Rasool’s rise to the national stage is a tale of quiet defiance against geography, infrastructure, and perception. For decades, Kashmir’s cricketing dreams were hindered by political turmoil, limited facilities, and minimal representation. Yet, Rasool emerged as the region’s first cricketer to don the Indian national jersey, proving that passion can thrive even in the shadow of adversity.
Breaking Boundaries: The First Kashmiri in Team India
Rasool’s international debut came in 2014 against Bangladesh (ODI) and again in 2017 against England (T20I) — short appearances by statistical standards, but monumental in symbolism.
For a region that had never seen its flag represented on the cricket field at the global level, Rasool’s selection was more than a sporting achievement — it was a collective moment of pride.
As he once said in an interview,
“When I started, no one believed that someone from J&K could reach this level. I wanted to change that perception — not just for me, but for every young boy with a bat in his hand in Kashmir.”
That change happened. After Rasool’s debut, the J&K Cricket Association saw a surge in registrations, new academies mushroomed across districts, and a generation of young players began to believe that national selection was not an impossible dream.
Consistency in the Domestic Circuit
While Rasool’s international appearances were limited, his domestic record speaks of endurance and excellence. Over 17 years of competitive cricket, he amassed:
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5,648+ First-Class runs
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352 wickets
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Countless match-winning performances in Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare, and Syed Mushtaq Ali tournaments
Representing Jammu & Kashmir in Ranji Trophy, Rasool captained the side through its most successful phase — including the historic 2013–14 season, when J&K defeated Mumbai at the Wankhede Stadium. That victory wasn’t just statistical; it was symbolic. It told India that J&K cricket was ready to compete, not just participate.
The IPL Chapter: Kashmir Meets the Big League
In 2014, Rasool became the first cricketer from Jammu & Kashmir to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) when Sunrisers Hyderabad picked him up. The move made headlines across India and inspired a wave of interest in Kashmiri talent.
Later, he also featured in the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad, sharing dressing rooms with legends like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and David Warner.
For a young cricketer from a small town, it was a dream that transcended personal achievement. His presence in the IPL signaled to the world that Kashmir was not just a tourist destination—it was a talent ground waiting to be recognized.
A Mentor Beyond the Field
Rasool’s influence extends far beyond the boundary rope. Known for his humility and accessibility, he has served as a mentor and role model for emerging cricketers across J&K. Even during off-seasons, Rasool could be found at local grounds — guiding teenagers, correcting bowling grips, or offering tactical advice.
One of his protégés, Abid Mushtaq, now part of the J&K squad, calls him “Bhai” rather than “Sir.”
“Parvez bhai taught us that cricket is not just about skills; it’s about attitude. He showed us how to believe we belong,” says Mushtaq.
This grassroots mentorship is perhaps Rasool’s greatest legacy — nurturing confidence and professionalism in a generation that once lacked exposure and support.
Between Cricket and Culture: A Symbol of Modern Kashmir
For Kashmir, Parvez Rasool became more than a cricketer; he became a cultural icon — representing the possibility of progress amid uncertainty.
His calm demeanor, discipline, and devotion to his craft embodied the modern Kashmiri spirit: resilient, talented, and determined to be seen for its excellence, not its conflict.
Rasool’s success also spurred conversations about sports infrastructure in the Valley. Over the past decade, several initiatives — from the Pahalgam Cricket Stadium project to youth coaching camps in Srinagar — have drawn inspiration from his journey.
His Farewell Note: Grace in Goodbye
In his retirement statement, Rasool wrote:
“When we started playing, not many took Jammu and Kashmir cricket seriously. Today, we’ve earned respect and recognition. For that, I am deeply thankful to my teammates, coaches, and supporters.”
His tone reflected gratitude rather than regret — a hallmark of his character. Rasool exits the field not as someone forgotten by selectors, but as someone fulfilled by purpose.
Legacy Beyond Numbers
Rasool’s retirement might close a professional chapter, but his influence will endure through:
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Coaching and development: Sources suggest he is considering formal coaching certifications to nurture regional talent.
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Commentary and analysis: Rasool’s deep understanding of the game could make him a valuable cricket analyst and voice of J&K sports.
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Community leadership: His social influence extends into education and youth engagement, where his presence inspires both discipline and hope.
In a state striving for stability and self-expression, Rasool’s journey stands as a metaphor for perseverance — a story of a boy from Bijbehara who bowled, batted, and dreamed his way into history.
Tributes Pour In
From fans to legends, tributes flooded social media following Rasool’s announcement.
Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan, who coached J&K for two seasons, wrote:
“Parvez Rasool has been the backbone of J&K cricket. His commitment, passion, and humility are unmatched. A true pioneer.”
Sports journalists called him “the quiet revolutionary,” while fans from Kupwara to Kulgam shared old match photos, recalling moments of joy and pride.
The Next Innings
As Rasool steps into life after cricket, one thing is certain — he won’t be walking away from the game. Whether as a coach, mentor, or commentator, his presence will continue to shape J&K’s cricketing future.
In the coming years, when young Kashmiri players debut in the IPL or India’s domestic leagues, they will do so on the foundation he built — quietly, steadily, and selflessly.
Editorial Reflection
Parvez Rasool’s story is not merely a sports biography — it’s a lesson in representation, resilience, and regional pride.
He showed that even from a land often overshadowed by politics and headlines, excellence can rise through hard work and integrity.
In Kashmir, where cricket is both a pastime and a form of hope, Rasool will forever remain more than a name on a scorecard — he’s the heartbeat of a generation that dared to dream.
