UT team to figure in Ranji Trophy

Tribune News Service
Chandigarh, August 14

The UT Cricket Association (UTCA), which was recently granted affiliation by the Indian cricket board (BCCI), has announced that it has got the approval to field teams in all formats (age groups and both genders), including the Ranji Trophy. UTCA had been made an Associate Member by BCCI early this month. 

UTCA president Sanjay Tandon said the association got BCCI’s approval to participate in its various tournaments through an email today. “We have a received a mail from the BCCI. They have allowed our association to play in all seven formats (four for males and three for females) from this season. It’s a big responsibility for us, and we appreciate the step taken by BCCI,” he said.

“UTCA will play its first-ever match in the upcoming JP Atray Memorial Cricket Championship. It’s a proud moment for the city as we will be able to field our team in the Ranji Trophy also,” added Tandon.

The JP Atray tournament is slated to be held from September 1, while BCCI’s domestic season (age groups matches) will start later in September. UTCA will organise trials to select its team at Mahajan Cricket Ground at IT Park on August 21.

VRV Singh is coach

UTCA has appointed former India pacer VRV Singh as the head coach. “We have appointed VRV Singh as the head coach for this championship,” Tandon said. “A 10-member team will be included in the coaching staff. He is a senior cricketer and has all the experience needed to groom the talent.”

The association also announced that an inter-school cricket championship will be organised in association with the UT Education Department and UT Administration, in order to spot young talent.

Tandon added that players can enrol with UTCA from August 16. “There will be no individual interference in any matter. Those interested in getting enrolled with us simply have to register themselves at www.chandigarhcricket.in,” Tandon said. “Players of all age groups can register.”

“We have a huge task of building up teams as the start of the season is approaching,” Tandon said. “For the seven formats, we will have 30 players in each category so as to have a good bench strength. The city has a vast infrastructure.  The players and members will be enrolled as per the Lodha Committee recommendations. The local players who have the city’s domicile will be able to play for the UT. Cricketers from other states who have represented their states need to obtain a no-objection certificate.”