‘Mysore Express’ Javagal Srinath wants cricket in every galli
Inspects Gangotri Glades
Expressing the need to spread cricket at the grassroots level, Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) Secretary Javagal Srinath said that the city has made its mark for having one of the better cricketing pitches in the country.
Speaking at a media conference at the Gangothri Glades Stadium here on Sunday, ‘Mysore Express’ Srinath said there was a need to maximise the use of existing stadiums.
“I won’t promise that we’ll build new stadiums, because land is not available. But, we will bring the team (KSCA) together and make it (cricket) a success,” he added.
Ranji Trophy
With the Ranji Trophy match between Karnataka and Baroda set to take place from December 8, Srinath opined that if the State progresses to the next stages, then there are possibilities for three-four Ranji matches to be held here.
Cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar had termed the wicket at Gangothri Glades as one of the best in the country, he added.
Furthermore, he added that an academy will be opened here shortly. He also said that if infrastructure is improved then we can attract rural talent.
Speaking to media persons, KSCA Mysore Zone Chairman Ashwini Ranjan said, “Seldom do you get to participate in a body that has received a complete mandate. It’s even rarer when it’s run by sportspersons.”
Optimism
Expressing optimism about making KSCA a model association, Ranjan said that the people at the helm of affairs will support cricket as they understand the sport because they have come up the hard way.
Improve infrastructure
He emphasised on the need to improve infrastructure and encourage local matches. “We hope to discover more Srinath’s in this area,” he added.
Observing that the city had produced many cricketers such as Vijay Prakash, Subramanya, Balachandar, Harikrishna, C G Ramesh and a host of others, Ranjan said that the sport has to be made more rewarding and should be encouraged at every level.
He also said that KSCA will be urged to introduce scholarships for players. KSCA Vice President Roger Binny said that there is possibility of holding Irani Cup and Duleep Trophy as the wicket suits both batsmen and bowlers.
