Shillong: A bitter standoff inside the Meghalaya Cricket Association has left the state at risk of losing its Ranji Trophy hosting rights. Cricket operations have ground to a halt. The Shillong Cricket Association points the finger at MCA president James P.K. Sangma for his refusal to sign approved cheques.
The impasse has blocked funds for seven months. Support staff are currently unpaid. Infrastructure work at the Polo Ground is stalled while the outfield grows over with weeds. Nine pitches need major repairs before a BCCI inspection in July. If the facility fails that check, Meghalaya loses its spot on the national schedule.
"The constitution is very clear on the issue of signatories. The honorary secretary and treasurer have already signed the cheques, but the president has refused to do so. As a result, funds cannot be released and the entire functioning of the association has been affected," SCA president Peter Macdonald Kharsawian said. The internal rift involves Sangma and five Apex Council members who demand the release of blocked cash.
District associations have met with Sangma to force a resolution without luck. Player trials and coaching camps are missing. Now, regional officials have appealed to the BCCI for direct intervention. They want the president to sign the papers and get the state’s cricket season moving again.
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