Baramulla, Sep 8: Baramulla witnessed a landmark moment in its cricketing journey as the General Bipin Rawat Stadium hosted a match under floodlights for the first time, adding a new dimension to the region’s growing sporting culture.

The historic occasion coincided with the much-awaited Chinar Premier League (CPL) 2026 semi-final, with BCC Reds taking on Sultan Warriors in a high-stakes encounter.
The introduction of floodlit cricket at the stadium drew considerable attention from players, cricket enthusiasts and spectators, creating an electric atmosphere around the venue. The evening match also provided a fresh experience for local fans, who turned up to witness the game and be part of the significant occasion.
The semi-final brought added excitement to the event, with both teams competing for a place in the CPL 2026 final. The quality of the contest, combined with the new floodlit setting, transformed the stadium into a vibrant centre of cricketing activity.
The first-ever floodlit match at the General Bipin Rawat Stadium marks an important development for sports infrastructure in Baramulla. The facility is expected to enhance the experience of players and spectators while creating opportunities for the district to host more high-profile cricket fixtures.
The occasion also highlighted the growing popularity of organised cricket in Jammu and Kashmir, where leagues such as the CPL are providing emerging players with competitive exposure and a platform to showcase their talent.
For Baramulla’s cricket fraternity, the floodlit semi-final was more than just another league fixture—it represented a new chapter for night cricket in the district and a promising step towards strengthening the local sporting ecosystem.