MANDI: The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) is set to seek the Mandi district administration’s assistance for the maintenance of cricket pitches at Paddal ground.
HPCA Secretary Avnish Parmar announced this during his recent inspection of the facility, emphasising the need for administrative collaboration to ensure proper upkeep.
Special soil used for pitch reconstruction
The HPCA recently rebuilt four pitches at the ground using five truckloads of specialised soil brought from Punjab. Parmar highlighted that maintaining these pitches was a more challenging task. Essential tools like rollers, tarpaulins and other equipment have been arranged, but administrative support is necessary for their effective use and management.
The upcoming Shivratri Fair, which sees heavy footfall at Paddal ground, poses additional challenges for pitch preservation. Parmar revealed that a delegation led by Mandi District Cricket Association president Ajay Rana would soon meet the Mandi Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan to discuss these concerns and request support.
Focus on reviving major matches
Once a hub for high-profile matches, the Paddal ground has the potential to regain its former glory. “Efforts are underway to host major matches here in the future,” Parmar said. Currently, the HPCA operates four sub-centres in Mandi, training over 100 aspiring cricketers daily. The district has a proud history of producing national and international players and the HPCA is committed to nurturing more talent from the region.
HPCA treasurer Vikram Singh and Mandi District Cricket Association president Ajay Rana accompanied Parmar during the visit. The officials interacted with players on the ground, listening to their concerns and discussing solutions.
