Vasco: Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar has emphasized the urgent need to develop the Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) Ground at Baina, which is currently in a dilapidated condition. He suggested that the ground could be developed through the Goa Cricket Association (GCA) for the benefit of aspiring sports athletes from Mormugao Taluka.
Salkar was speaking to reporters after attending the Under-14 season ball tournament organized by Sharvani Sports Club at the MPA Ground. Highlighting the importance of such tournaments, he said, “We have seen so much talent in the children because of these matches. It is important to have such tournaments as they help groom players at a young age and provide great exposure at the right time.”
Reflecting on the historical significance of the MPA Ground, Salkar added, “This ground may be in a poor condition today, but it is the very place where cricket began in Goa. Many top national-level players, including legends like Sunil Gavaskar and Ravi Shastri, have played here in the past.”
The Vasco MLA revealed that efforts were already in motion to secure the ground for redevelopment. “We had requested the MPA to hand over the ground to us so that we can develop it through the GCA or any other agency. The MPA can also take up this project as part of their social responsibility. This ground has hosted several state and national-level football and cricket tournaments, and it should not be left to deteriorate further.”
Discussing the importance of sports infrastructure in Vasco, he remarked, “We have already renovated the Bhute Bhat ground, we are renovating Tilak Maidan, and we are developing a sports complex at Tanya Ground. However, we cannot ignore this ground, which can be used exclusively for cricket. With proper development, we could see a national-level cricketer emerging from Vasco.”
Salkar also highlighted the strong public support for the project. “We have spoken to the MPA twice regarding this ground, and nearly 300 parents have approached us, urging us to develop it. We have now decided to start a movement with parents and athletes to maximize its use. Our goal is to produce a future Virat Kohli from Vasco.”
He urged people to set aside political affiliations and support the cause. “If the MPA does not respond, we will take this matter to Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, the GCA, and even the central government. This ground must not remain in ruins when it can be put to good use.”
As an alternative, Salkar stated that even if MPA was unwilling to invest in the project, the state government could step in. “We only need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from MPA to develop the ground through government support. I have already written to CM Dr. Sawant, requesting him to ask MPA to hand over the ground to us.”
Appealing directly to MPA, he emphasized, “The MPA has expanded significantly and has a booming business here. They should hand over the ground as part of their social responsibility, at least under the PM Narendra Modi Fit India Mission initiative, for the betterment of our children.”
He also commended local clubs for their dedication to the sport. “Clubs like Sharvani Sports Club, one of the oldest cricket clubs, are organizing matches for players of all ages, including veterans. They can also take responsibility for maintaining the ground once it is developed.”
Concluding his statement, Salkar assured that he would continue pushing for the development of the ground. “My only request to MPA is to hand over this ground so that it can be put to great use. I will take this issue up with CM Dr. Pramod Sawant and even raise it at the central level. Developing this ground is essential for fostering athletes in Mormugao Taluka, and I will do everything in my power to make it happen.”
