Kerala Cricket Association Unveils Transformative Initiatives

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:
The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) held its 74th Annual General Body Meeting today at the Hyatt Regency, Thiruvananthapuram, announcing a series of ambitious plans and initiatives aimed at transforming cricket in the state.

One of the major highlights was the decision to provide insurance coverage to players registered with District Cricket Association and Kerala Cricket Association which cover around 17,000 players, District and State panel umpires, scorers, employees, and office bearers of district cricket association and members of Kerala Cricket Association. Initially, this will cover treatment and hospitalization for on-field injuries, with plans to expand to Medi-claim and life insurance in the future.

KCA revealed its plans to establish state-of-the-art cricket academies in Thekkumbhagam (Thodupuzha Twin Ground) and Mangalapuram (Thiruvananthapuram). A new academy block will also be established for the existing Women Academy at Wayanad. The association also announced the commencement of the tendering process for a new cricket ground and infrastructure at Ezhukone, Kollam.

To enhance facilities for night cricket, floodlights will be installed at key venues in Mangalapuram, Alappuzha, and Wayanad. The Kerala Cricket League (KCL) will now be hosted across multiple venues, with the addition of a Kerala Women’s Cricket League. Efforts are underway to acquire land in three additional districts to further expand cricket infrastructure across Kerala.

Another significant announcement was the development of a Sports Hub Project in Palakkad on land owned by the Malabar Devaswom Board. The agreement for this project will be finalized early next year, followed by tendering and construction.

KCA has allocated an additional Rs. 2 crore budget provision for the promotion of women’s cricket, underscoring its commitment to gender inclusivity. A committee has also been formed to establish policies for a Benevolent Fund to support retired cricketers, officials, and administrators.

KCA has also formed a committee to oversee the planning and execution of an International Stadium Project. Additionally, the “Cricket @ School” program, aimed at nurturing young talent, will be launched in the upcoming academic year in collaboration with the Kerala Education Department.

“These initiatives reaffirm KCA’s dedication to elevating cricket in Kerala, providing world-class facilities, and nurturing talent. With these comprehensive plans, the association is poised to make 2025 a landmark year for cricket in the state”, said Vinod S. Kumar, Secretary, Kerala Cricket Association. The AGM also authorised the office bearers to prepare a plan of action to celebrate the 75th year of the Association, next year. This milestone year will be marked with special events and initiatives to honour the rich history and achievements of KCA, said Vinod S Kumar.