KSCA's new facilities draw praise from Bangladesh 'A' skipper

BANGALORE: The Anil Kumble & Javagal Srinath led committee at the Karnataka State Cricket Association has taken up the task of creating more and better infrastructure across the state in right earnest ever since they took over in 2010. This year's ongoing Shafi Darashah tournament has turned out as the right moment to showcase these new facilities, especially their completely owned grounds at Alur.
And in the Bangladesh 'A' team, currently in Bangalore to compete in the invitation tournament, they seem to have found very appreciative fans of the new facilities.
Speaking at the end of a day's play, Bangladesh 'A' skipper Shahriar Nafees said his team was mesmerized by the conditions they came across when they walked into the Alur Cricket Ground. He said, "Given this was our first trip to Bangalore, we didn't know what to expect - in terms of conditions or facilities. However, we were pleasantly surprised when we landed up at the Alur grounds this morning; it is an awesome place to play cricket. First of all, the weather is very pleasant, the ground has a very good feel to it, the outfield is lush green and the pitch offered swing and good bounce for the fast bowlers.
"We understand that there are plans for the construction of a pavilion, gymnasium and swimming pool. Once all of that infrastructure comes up, Alur will no doubt be a world-class facility." The facility has three grounds in all, with only one being used for this tournament.
Talking about the goals his team had laid down to accomplish from participating in the tournament, the Bangladesh 'A' skipper said his team knew the competition was going to be very intense. He said, "We follow the Ranji Trophy back home and we knew before we started that the competition was going to be really intense. Ranji Trophy winners Rajasthan, Mumbai, Baroda and Karnataka are very strong teams in Indian cricket, and we knew we had our task cut out."
For the visitors, it was always going to be a great opportunity. "Playing in the Shafi Darashah gives us the opportunity to play against strong teams and in very good conditions. This tournament offers us a chance to test ourselves against some very good teams and players, and in the process improve our cricket skills," said a grateful Nafees.
For the KSCA this is only the beginning. As it this tournament also saw the BGS ground in Bangalore and SJCE in Mysore being added as new venues but in the near future, more such facilities will be ready for use in districts such as Mangalore, Hubli and so on.