Daijiworld Media Network -Mangaluru (DV)

Mangaluru, Sep 4: A dream of several years of having an international cricket stadium in the city is likely to materialise soon. 

Like the stadium in Bengaluru, Mangaluru too will get a well-fledged cricket stadium soon. 

In Konaje, there is a plan to construct an international cricket stadium. The proposed cricket stadium will likely to come up on 20 acres of land.

Karnataka State Cricket Association has inspected the land for the construction of the stadium. If the work gets started and completed, cricket matches for under-18, Ranji, and women will be held.

Currently, there is no cricket stadium in the city with all kinds of facilities. Ranji matches are generally held in Shivamogga, Hubballi, Mysuru, and other parts of the state.

The Konaje is also nearer to Kasargod district. As there are various kinds of transportation facilities, Konaje enjoys some importance as a locality to have a stadium.

There has been a demand for a well-fledged cricket stadium for decades now. Karnataka State Cricket Association had submitted a proposal to the district administration in 1999 for constructing the stadium.  The Association was willing to complete the stadium work if the administration gives 15 acres of land. Though there was a proposal for the cricket stadium for decades, it did not materialise.

In 2002, there was a proposal to build a cricket stadium and a comprehensive sports complex in Pilikula where a 72-acre plot is available. There was also a proposal to construct a cricket stadium in Bondel, Baikampady, and Thanirubhavi.

Several players from the coastal region have contributed to the Indian cricket team. K L Rahul who is shining in international cricket was practicing cricket in his childhood days in the Nehru Maidan.