The Kargil War
“The year was 1999. The list of cities, places, and names connected by the dots stretched across the globe ….,” the narrator paused, seemingly lost in thought, and then resumed, “… Kashmir, Mumbai, Lahore, New Delhi, Washington, London, Antigua, Singapore, Sahara, Toronto. Apologies if you think I’m referring to John Le Carre’s 1999 novel, ‘Single & Single’, which delves into the workings of an international money-laundering operation. Our yarn involves a holy war, armed conflict, threat of nuclear escalation, money – always money – and the game of cricket. Yes, cricket in far-flung former English colonies and outposts.
“Our narrative began high up in the Himalayas, along the Line of Control which snakes through the stunningly beautiful Kashmir Valley, separating India and Pakistan. This border was closely guarded by soldiers on both sides throughout the year, although the terrain made it difficult to enforce strict border control. Hundreds of mules were utilised by the army in their patrols. However, in the frigid winter months, it was common practice for both armies to regularly descend to lower altitudes to escape the harsh climatic conditions.
