Kozhikode, July 1 (IANS) The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA), along with the district associations, is on a drive to popularise the game further in the state by developing infrastructure.
'At present, developing infrastructure is the main agenda of the KCA. In Kerala cricket is not promoted in schools like in other states,' said T.C. Mathew, secretary of KCA. 'We are planning to develop a main ground and a minimum of two rural centres in all the 14 districts in the state.' Each of the district association will take the decision on the number of rural centres required in its region.
'In Kerala, the infrastructure of cricket mostly remains in cities. Many people view it as a game of rich people. This has to change. Under our plan 'Mission 2010', we want more players like Sreesanth from Kerala,' said O.K. Manoharan, the KCA committee member.
'Under the programme to develop infrastructure we have already completed the work on the main ground at Perinthalmanna in Malappuram district at a cost of Rs 8 million.'
He said another ground is nearing completion at Thalassery in Kannur district with a potential to hold first class cricket matches.
'These grounds have turf wickets where we could host first class cricket matches. In rural centres we are planning facilities for net practice.'
In Kozhikode, the district association has already prepared two rural centres while in Pathanamthitta district, the association is coming up with an indoor net practicing facility. In the hilly district of Wayanad, the association has already bought land for a cricket ground.
'The KCA has provided enough funds to the district associations to develop the infrastructure. The maximum amount given is Rs 30 million,' Manoharan said.
The KCA also has plans to provide cricket kits to children in the rural areas.
