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Bengaluru: A triumphant Venkatesh Prasad, newly elected President of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), delivered his first public reaction after securing a decisive 191-vote victory in the high-stakes cricket administration election. Calling the mandate a “victory for cricket,” Prasad said KSCA members voted for change, accountability, and a return to strong cricketing infrastructure.

Speaking moments after the results were declared, Prasad said KSCA members had shown “remarkable trust” in his panel.

Venkatesh Prasad Calls KSCA Win a Mandate for “Cricket First”; Kumble, Srinath Hail New Leadership After Resounding Victory

“Members Wanted Change—Cricket Had Suffered”

Explaining the reason behind the landslide win, Prasad said members were frustrated with administrative failures and declining standards:

“Members wanted change. Over the last three years, too many things went wrong—not just the stampede during the RCB celebrations, but cricketing setbacks too. Grounds were lost, academies became defunct, infrastructure collapsed, and district centres suffered. Members knew exactly what we were speaking about and placed their trust in us.”

Calling the election a turning point, he added:

“This victory is for cricket, for the members, and for the fans. KSCA must place cricket first—local cricket, domestic cricket, and international cricket.”

Commitment to Bring Back IPL and Strengthen Stadium Infrastructure

Addressing concerns about recent discussions on shifting IPL matches away from Bengaluru after the RCB celebration tragedy, Prasad acknowledged Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s assurance that IPL games would remain at Chinnaswamy Stadium.

“It’s encouraging that the DCM has said IPL matches will not be moved out of Bengaluru. We will work closely with the government and BCCI. Chinnaswamy is the pride of Karnataka, and IPL matches must continue here.”

He said the new KSCA administration would engage with the state government, BCCI, and former players to restore Bengaluru’s importance as a premier cricket venue.

“We will hold discussions with the government and BCCI. Our legendary cricketers are with us and will support this effort.”

Also Read: Venkatesh Prasad Elected KSCA President; Beats Shantakumar by 191 Votes in High-Voltage Election

Anil Kumble on the KSCA Verdict: “This Is a Victory for Cricket, Not Just a Panel”

Former India captain Anil Kumble, who backed Prasad’s panel, said the result marks a new beginning for Karnataka cricket:

“This is not just Venkatesh Prasad’s victory—it is cricket’s victory. For nearly three years, Karnataka cricket was pushed backwards. This team now has the responsibility to restore the sport and support all stakeholders—players, fans, coaches, clubs, academies.”

Kumble emphasised that the vision must extend beyond Bengaluru:

“Karnataka cricket doesn’t mean only Bengaluru. Districts and rural zones must grow. Thousands of young boys and girls dream of wearing Karnataka and India colours—this administration must protect their dreams.”

He also hinted that senior former players are ready to support KSCA in advisory roles if requested:

“We don’t need designations or titles. If the new administration seeks guidance, we are always with them. The environment is positive again, and we will support cricket in every way.”

Javagal Srinath’s Perspective: “A Big Responsibility—Time to Look Ahead”

Former Indian pacer and ex-KSCA secretary Javagal Srinath said the clean mandate puts enormous responsibility on the new team:

“It’s a huge victory, but also a huge responsibility. We know how challenging the role is—we experienced it ourselves during 2010–13. The focus must now be on infrastructure, academies, district cricket, school and college cricket.”

He said Karnataka cricket’s strength lies in its grassroots:

“Ranji Trophy titles and international players emerge only when strong grassroots cricket exists. The new team must ensure unconditional support for players and coaches.”

Urging everyone to move past past controversies, Srinath said:

“Forget what happened earlier—look ahead. All elected members deserve thanks. Karnataka cricket must become one of the best again.”

The Road Ahead for Prasad and His Team

Prasad said the administration’s priorities include:
• Reviving district academies
• Rebuilding KSCA-controlled grounds
• Improving infrastructure at Chinnaswamy
• Ensuring IPL and international cricket stay in Bengaluru
• Strengthening domestic cricket pathways
• Working closely with government and BCCI for long-term plans