Cricket In The Valley

Jammu & Kashmir's incredible natural beauty goes hand in hand with its political and religious turmoil. Life in the state goes on under the shadow of the gun, wielded sometimes by extremists, other times by the state. Where does cricket fit into the scheme of things? Perhaps these pictures offer clues.

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Labours unload willow clefts from a tractor on February 16, 2011 in Halmullah, near Srinagar, in Kashmir, India. Kashmir willow, whilst less valuable than English willow is widely used in cricket bats found across the globe. Cricket bats in Kashmir made from local willow can be bought for as little as US$11, whereas its English counterpart can command prices of at least US$170. (Photo by Yawar Nazir/Getty Images)
Labours unload willow clefts from a tractor on February 16, 2011 in Halmullah, near Srinagar, in Kashmir, India. Kashmir willow, whilst less valuable than English willow is widely used in cricket bats found across the globe. Cricket bats in Kashmir made from local willow can be bought for as little as US$11, whereas its English counterpart can command prices of at least US$170. (Photo by Yawar Nazir/Getty Images)