Calling it a “long-awaited positive turn” for cricket in Karnataka, newly elected Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) President and former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad said the association will now work with complete dedication to rebuild, modernise, and expand cricket infrastructure across the state, “no politics, only progress for cricket.”
Addressing a press conference at the KSCA Stadium in Kanbargi, Belagavi, on Wednesday morning, Prasad said this was his first visit to the venue and that he was “pleased but concerned” about its current condition. “The ground is fine, but the stadium requires major upgrades. For nearly three years, nothing has moved forward. Even the initiatives started earlier by Anil Kumble and Javagal Srinath remain incomplete. We will fix this without delay,” he said.
Prasad, who met the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister earlier in the day, described the interactions as “positive and encouraging.” He said the state leadership acknowledged the tragic accident at Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium during RCB’s IPL 2025 victory celebrations.
“Many matches and events have been held at Chinnaswamy, but nothing like this has ever happened. It was extremely unfortunate. We offer our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims,” he said, declining to comment on individual responsibility.
He added that the BCCI has been in regular contact and has assured full support to bring closure to the case as soon as possible. The incident also led to the stadium missing out on hosting a Women’s World Cup game and other major fixtures.
“To make up for that loss, the BCCI has agreed to allot us bilateral series matches, and even the IPL opening games,” Prasad disclosed.
The newly elected KSCA Executive Committee, which assumed office on Monday, has already begun inspecting facilities across the state.
“In the past three days, we have met ministers, held discussions with officials, and visited Belagavi. Our next stop is Hubballi. Our intentions should be clear by now; we are here to rebuild cricket and ensure better days ahead,” Prasad said.
He highlighted that Belagavi, Shivamogga, Tumakuru, Hubballi, and other centres will see fast-tracked development, with efforts to host regularly quality matches to support regional talent.
“All cricket centres, including Belagavi, will be upgraded soon,” he reaffirmed.
Earlier, KSCA Dharwad Division Convener Avinash Potdar opened the event by recalling Belagavi’s rich cricketing history, including memories of Prasad’s famous spell in the 1996 World Cup. KSCA Vice President Sujit Somasundar, Secretary Santosh Menannavar, and Vinay Mrityunjay were also present.
