Across many sports, valley athletes thrived nationally and globally. Here let’s take a look at the top sportspersons from Kashmir in 2024
Ishfaq Ahmed (Head coach of Real Kashmir FC)
The first name on our 2024 list is the head coach of the Real Kashmir FC, Ishfaq Ahmed. Ahmed achieved great success in Indian football, leading his team to a strong performance in the I-League, where they finished a respectable 5th in the 2023-24 season, and earned praise across the country. Ishfaq helped young local players grow by giving them opportunities to play at a high level. His smart strategies and teamwork helped Real Kashmir win important matches and stay respected as a top football club. Off the field, Ishfaq worked hard to promote football in Kashmir and inspired many young players to follow their dreams.
Currently, Real Kashmir stands 4th in the I-League table and looks set to compete for the title in the new year and earn a spot in the Indian Super League (ISL), which is the top tier of Indian league football.
Rasikh Salam (Cricketer)
In a proud moment for cricket fans from the Valley, Rasikh Salam, the talented pacer from Kashmir, was snapped up by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) ahead of the IPL 2025 season. The young speedster, known for his swing and control, was sold during the IPL auction at a significant price of 6 crore, marking another milestone in his promising career.
At 6 crore, he became the most expensive uncapped player at the auction. RCB snapped the pacer following a fierce bidding battle with Sunrisers Hyderabad. The bidding initially halted at INR 2 crore in RCB’s favor, but Delhi Capitals, impressed by the pacer’s performance for them last season, exercised their Right To Match card. However, RCB promptly raised their bid to INR 6 crore, prompting DC to withdraw from the contest.
Kaifa Shah (Wushu)
Kaifa Shah, a talented athlete from Jammu & Kashmir and a student of Presentation Convention HR Secondary School, secured a gold medal in Wushu at the 68th National School Games (SGFI) held in New Delhi from December 9 to 13, 2024. Known for her dedication both on and off the mat, Kaifa has consistently excelled in Wushu while maintaining an outstanding academic record, showcasing her ability to balance sports and studies with remarkable success.
In the 68th U/19 Championship, Kaifa triumphed over top Wushu athletes from across the nation, earning widespread acclaim for her exceptional techniques. Her stellar performance in the Championship has positioned her as one of the most promising martial artists from Kashmir and one of the most successful athletes in Kashmir in 2024.
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