Madhav Apte, who headed Mumbai Cricket Association's Cricket Improvement Committee for six years, opens up on the choice of his successor and what city cricket needs to do for a sea change
Madhav Apte, who headed Mumbai Cricket Association's Cricket Improvement Committee for six years, opens up on the choice of his successor and what city cricket needs to do for a sea change
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Madhav Apte, who headed the Cricket Improvement Committee (CIC) for six years before putting a full stop to his tenure recently, reckons Sunil Gavaskar is a fine choice as CIC head. "In fact, it's a great choice," he said.
It was reported exclusively in these columns yesterday that Mumbai Cricket Association vice-president Dilip Vengsarkar stressed to president Pawar that Gavaskar would not be a good choice since the batting great is not available most of the time.
Experienced Sunil
"What you must have is vision and Sunil has the experience to do it. I also don't agree to the view that CIC members have to watch matches. That will only be relevant when it comes to picking selectors and coaches," Apte (76) told MiD DAY.
"I don't think Sunil needs to watch maidan cricket. It is his vision which should be accepted and his tenure should be five to seven years."
Apte spoke candidly on what changes he would have liked to see during his term. "I believe that there should be a lot of emphasis on the junior level. Not only cricket but any sport. Are the juniors getting the best facilities; are the umpires good enough; is the equipment adequate? These are key issues. In Mumbai, schools cricket is run by the Mumbai Schools Sports Association but the MCA should run it. Similarly, schools hockey should be conducted by Bombay Hockey Association. Sadly, this has not taken place. Maybe, I have not argued my case well... I don't know."
Be professional
The former India opener, who played the Kanga League for half a century, would like to see the infusion of professionalism. "On one hand, the game is becoming professional. At the same time, the Mumbai Cricket Associationu00a0 depends on elected representatives who do honorary work. Mind you, these people are dedicated.
But aspects like schools cricket, maidan cricket and MCA's properties should be handled by separate full-time executives. That will cost money but they will be accountable," said Apte.
He stressed that his tenure was an enjoyable experience and there was nothing to his departure other than the need for change which he believes strongly in. "Vijay Merchant always advocated 'quit when people ask why and not why not'. "
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