Apprehensions over KPL matches in Manipal

Rains play spoilsport

 A big disappointment awaits cricket lovers of undivided Dakshina Kannada and neighbouring district who were much anxious to witness the Mantri KPL matches scheduled at Manipal End Point Ground between September 22 to 24. The recent rainfall in the region has affected the pitches.

Karnataka State Cricket Association Assistant Secretary  and former Ranji Captain Sudhakar Rao, the one-man committee, inspected the ground and the pitch on Saturday morning. Speaking to press persons later, he said the decision will be taken in Bangalore on the possibility of holding matches. The report on the pitch has been sent to Bangalore.

“Though the pitch is very good for holding cricket matches, the field is still wet and damaged and it will take at least two days with good sunshine to get dry, provided rain does not play spoilsport.”

“As per weather forecast, heavy rains are expected in the next 48 hours. The possibility of holding matches seems to be excessively remote,” he said.
“The soil of coastal district is not like Bangalore. In Bangalore, the ground will be ready even if the rain stops for an hour. However, here the water does not percolate so easily. The matches can be held only if the region does not get rain again. Only with good sunshine, the ground can become dry.”
“If we can not hold the KPL matches, we will have 20-20 under 22 cricket match in the ground in the future,” he informed. 

As per the schedule, the KPL matches were scheduled to be held on September 22, 23 and 24. The decision on holding the matches in Manipal was taken eight to nine months ago. The cricket ground was inaugurated by Brijesh Patel on Jaunary 29.  To dry the water on the ground, drainages are being laid through a pipe.  A temporary pavillion and spectators’ gallery has been built in the ground. Convener Manohar Ameen, Manipal University Sports Secretary Dr Rajesh Bhakta and others were present.
DH News Service