Kashmir was left stunned as the Indian Heaven Premier League collapsed in Srinagar after organisers fled without paying hotels, players, and staff. Featuring international stars like Chris Gayle, the cricket league’s sudden breakdown exposed mismanagement, unpaid bills, and chaos in Jammu and Kashmir’s much-hyped sports event.
Jammu and Kashmir Sports Authorities Seek Explanation from Organisers
The much-publicised Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL) in Srinagar has imploded, leaving players, umpires and local staff stranded after organisers allegedly fled without clearing bills and meeting contractual obligations. The tournament — promoted as a boost for sports tourism in Jammu & Kashmir and billed to feature stars such as Chris Gayle, Jesse Ryder and Thisara Perera — came to an abrupt stop after dwindling attendance and reported sponsor withdrawals created a funding shortfall.
By Monday, roughly 40 participants and support staff were marooned in hotels, unpaid and confused, according to multiple reports from the ground. Hotel officials and an English umpire told reporters that organisers disappeared overnight, leaving accommodation and service bills unsettled and forcing players to check out or seek help from diplomatic channels. Several players had already left after sensing problems, but many remained without clarity on match schedules or payments.
The IHPL was organised by a non-profit called Yuva Society with reported assistance from local sports authorities; it was intended to run from October 25 to November 8 at Bakshi Stadium with plans to draw tens of thousands of spectators. Expectations were high after organisers advertised 32 international players and regional mentors, but poor ticket sales, logistical failures — including missing uniforms — and sponsors pulling back left the event financially unsustainable. Only 13 matches were completed before the shutdown, and the final fixtures were cancelled amid confusion.
