Royal Group Ends Tie-Up with Revival, Forms United Front for Baroda Cricket Association Polls
In a dramatic turn of events ahead of the high-stakes Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) elections scheduled for February 15, the Royal Group, led by Samarjitsinh Gaekwad of the erstwhile royal family, has terminated its alliance with the Pranav Amin-led Revival Group. Instead, it has forged a new partnership with the Satyamev Jayate Group, creating a united front that promises to intensify the electoral contest. This realignment sets the stage for a closely fought battle between Dr Darshan Banker, the presidential candidate fielded by the Satyamev Jayate Group, and Kiran More, the former India wicket-keeper representing the Revival Group.
Concerns Over Administration and Representation
On Thursday, members of the Royal and Satyamev Jayate groups jointly addressed the media, voicing strong criticisms against the Revival group's tenure. They raised concerns over what they described as "dominance and ineffective administration" that had allegedly failed to benefit cricketers and cricket development in Vadodara. Gaekwad and Banker emphasized their commitment to working towards the betterment of Baroda cricket and ensuring improved welfare for local cricketers if elected.
Gaekwad explained the reasons behind the split, citing differences over the presidential candidate selection due to the Lodha Committee Report provisions and issues of representation within the management. He stated, "Given the clauses of the Lodha Committee recommendations, neither I nor Pranav Amin can contest the polls... We were not getting enough representation and one cannot remain suppressed for a long time." He also highlighted achievements like stadium construction but questioned the lack of domestic cricket titles, underscoring the need for focus on junior cricketers.
Key Candidates and Legal Developments
The election features prominent candidates: Kiran More, a former India wicket-keeper and ex-Chairman of the BCCI Selection Committee, represents the Revival Group, while Dr Darshan Banker, a city-based cardiologist, is the candidate for the new united front. Banker's nomination faced a hurdle when the BCA mandated physical presence during scrutiny on January 20, coinciding with his son's wedding in Goa. However, the Gujarat High Court intervened with an oral order, instructing the BCA not to reject his nomination on grounds of absence and allowing a representative to be present, thus paving the way for his candidacy.
Support from Former Cricketers and Officials
The announcement of the united front saw the presence of several former BCA office-bearers and cricketers, including Connor Williams and Jacob Martin, adding credibility to the new alliance. Dr Banker also mentioned that former India wicket-keeper Nayan Mongia had signed his nomination papers, indicating broader support within the cricketing community. This consolidation of forces suggests a strategic move to challenge the incumbent administration and bring about change in the BCA's leadership.
With the polls set for February 15, the political landscape of Baroda cricket is poised for a significant transformation, as stakeholders rally behind their chosen candidates in a bid to shape the future of the sport in the region.
