DDCA bans complimentary passes to Apex Council, announces major reforms and infrastructure push

New Delhi: The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) has announced a series of major decisions and reforms aimed at improving facilities, enhancing player welfare and streamlining cricket administration in the capital.

At a recent meeting, DDCA President Rohan Jaitley proposed that no member of the Apex Council should accept complimentary passes as a matter of practice. The proposal was accepted by the majority of the members, confirmed DDCA director Shyam Sharma.

Under the revised member entitlements, each member will receive two complimentary tickets for Gates No. 17 and 18 along with buffet lunch facilities. To ensure smooth and hassle-free stadium entry, biometric access for all members through a designated gate has also been proposed.

In a significant boost for match officials, the DDCA decided to increase the match fees of umpires and scorers by 30 percent, keeping in view the growing popularity and demands of domestic cricket.

The association also moved towards gender parity by deciding to increase the prize money for the women’s team to bring it at par with the men’s team.

For the convenience of young cricketers, it was decided that DDCA league matches will be conducted in central Delhi as far as possible. Grounds such as Modern School Barakhamba, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Hamdard and DDA grounds like in Jasola and other places are set to be taken on annual lease through auction for cricket activities.

The DDCA has also resolved to provide opportunities to the maximum number of players in the Delhi Premier League (DPL). In another key decision, the squad size for all teams across age groups and formats was unanimously capped at 16 players. The same structure will apply to all DDCA domestic squads. For the last couple of seasons, there has been huge controversy with jumbo squads travelling for various matches.

To strengthen the cricketing structure, the formation of the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), along with the appointment of selectors and coaches, will be carried out on priority to ensure adequate time for evaluating player performances.

On the infrastructure front, the DDCA announced that work on a new building project will commence soon. The proposed facility will include 30 rooms, a swimming pool, indoor practice pitches and a multi-cuisine restaurant. Dressing rooms and corporate boxes at the stadium will also undergo renovation and upgrades.

Keeping spectators in mind, the association further revealed plans to install canopies and bleachers at the venue to provide relief to fans during extreme summer conditions.

Reacting to the developments, long-time DDCA member Pramod Jain praised the leadership of Rohan Jaitley and the Apex Council for the reforms and smooth management of facilities during the IPL season.

“Rohan ji and the Apex Council have taken very commendable steps. DDCA provides all facilities very well. The management of IPL tickets, rooms and other arrangements has been smooth and efficient,” Jain said.

He, however, stressed that the revival of Delhi cricket at the domestic level should remain the top priority.

“But cricket is paramount. Our main goal is seeing Delhi boys shine in the Ranji Trophy and other national-level tournaments. IPL facilities are important, but they remain second fiddle to our on-field performance,” he added.

Jain also suggested several measures to revive Delhi’s cricketing fortunes, including starting team camps earlier for better fitness and preparation, conducting selections in a timely manner, reviewing past performances honestly, and ensuring accountability in the appointment of coaches and selectors.

“If these steps are taken, it would be the icing on the cake. We all stand with the Apex Council in the mission to revive Delhi cricket,” he said.

Tags : DDCA, Cricket, Rohan Jaitley, IPL, Complimentary tickets