HYDERABAD: If rumours are to be believed and former Test off-spinner N Shivlal Yadav is firm in his decision to quit this time, the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) will probably have a new secretary this month. Yadav had threatened to quit in the past but was always ‘forced’ to review his stand by supporters.
“I don’t want to continue. I’m firm this time. I want to hand over charge to the new incumbent as early as possible. I had promised my friends that I would stay on till the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations.
The function is over now and it is time to relinquish the post,’’ said Yadav, who succeeded M Ranga Reddy in 2000. In fact, Yadav’s term ends next year. He will, however, continue as vice-president of the BCCI. The annual general meeting (AGM) of the association will be held on May 3, Sunday.
Some supporters of Shivlal Yadav camp are hoping that a majority of the 220 members would request the former Test off-spinner to continue for one more year. But if Yadav is adamant to quit, then the new secretary will be chosen at the next executive committee meeting.
There are a few contenders for the post like MV Sridhar, (vice-president), DS Chalapathi (joint secretary) and former secretary PR Man Singh. Sridhar, who is Hyderabad’s highest run-getter in Ranji Trophy tournament, could be a strong contender to succeed Yadav. Sridhar, who was praised for his excellent handling of the ‘Monkeygate’ affair (Harbhajan Singh-Andrew Symonds spat) during India’s famous tour of Australia in 2007, has the backing of Shivlal Yadav. Chalapathi, a good worker, is also garnering support.
Recently, the seasoned Man Singh threw his hat into the ring saying he wants to “set the house in order”. But the question is how many would actually support his candidature. He was the secretary from 1976 before resigning in 1992.
Perhaps, Shivlal Yadav’s biggest contribution is the monumental Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, described by BCCI president Shashank Manohar as a state-of-the art piece.
Although it was started four years ago, it is yet to be completed leading to criticism in some quarters. Yadav has promised that it will be over next year. The cost of the stadium has been increasing every year.
Despite all the good work, Shivlal Yadav has been found wanting in conducting local league games in a proper manner.
Many say that the leagues are absolutely unprofessional now.
The standard of the game has deteriorated quite a bit with no proper league calendar. Often, top division matches are conducted just for the sake of it. Also, unnecessary expenditure or ‘misuse of funds’ needs to be arrested.
Says a Hyderabad Cricket Association official: “The cash-rich HCA has become a source of livelihood for many of the office-bearers. It is a shame. The immediate attention should be on tightening the financial loose ends. Otherwise, God alone can save the association.’’
