"The foundation stone of the international cricket stadium in Pernem will be laid in the first month of 2023 and we hope to host international tournaments thereafter,” stated Goa Cricket Association (GCA) secretary Rohan Gauns Desai on taking charge of office in Porvorim on Thursday.
“The government is expected to hand over the Goa cricket academy ground to us in a few months. A few formalities need to be completed and that is the reason for the delay,” explained Rohan when asked why the Academy ground was still not officially handed over to GCA despite Chief Minister Pramod Sawant promising during the prize distribution function in 2021.
“The emphasis during this term is on the Goa team winning the Ranji Trophy for the first time. I was with the Ranji probables the next day after my elections and I stressed with them the importance of winning the Ranji Trophy. Winning the Ranji tournament is a special moment for any association and we want to be part of that,” stated Rohan.
“To win the Ranji title is our ultimate aim,” added Rohan.
“Emphasis is now going to be laid on taking grassroots development to every village in Goa. Once the managing committee meets, we will form a committee that will delve into how to make cricket accessible to all boys and girls in villages,” promised Rohan.
“We were lucky to have Sachin Tendulkar visiting and spending over two hours with our boys preparing for the Vijay Hazare tournament. “Players need to be made to feel more comfortable before we expect results from them,” said Rohan.