Patna: During a press conference following the Special General Meeting (SGM) of the Bihar Cricket Association (BCA), held in Patna, BCA President Rakesh Kumar Tiwari announced the association’s ongoing efforts to transform Moinul Haq Stadium into an international-level facility. Tiwari shared that the BCA aims to lay the foundation stone for the stadium upgrade in November, emphasising the commitment to enhancing the cricket infrastructure in Bihar.
When questioned about spectator entry for the ongoing Ranji Trophy matches, Tiwari explained that the BCA is actively working on making live scores available online. He noted that the spectators’ gallery has been deemed unsafe by the government, and as a result, the BCA requests cricket fans to follow the matches online for their safety.
Addressing concerns regarding the selection process, the BCA President highlighted the achievements of players from modest backgrounds, showcasing the transparency and inclusiveness of the process. He cited the example of Sakib Hussain, who has been selected for the Kolkata Knight Riders team in the Indian Premier League (IPL), and Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who has been chosen for the India U-19 team. Tiwari expressed pride in these players, stating that their selection brings honour to Bihar and demonstrates the association’s commitment to nurturing local talent.
Tiwari also called upon cricket enthusiasts and supporters to contribute their suggestions for the development of Bihar cricket, assuring them that the BCA values their input and will work to implement viable ideas.
Ethics Officer Assumes Additional Role of Ombudsman in BCA
The SGM, chaired by BCA President Rakesh Kumar Tiwari, took place at a private hotel in Patna and was attended by representatives from all district associations affiliated with the BCA, along with members of the Committee of Management. The meeting was held in compliance with an order issued by the Division Bench of the Patna High Court, led by the Chief Justice, on 7th October 2024.
In the meeting, it was decided that the Ethics Officer, Nawal Kishore Singh (Retired District and Sessions Judge), who was appointed during the General Assembly meeting on 18th August 2024, would take on the additional responsibility of Ombudsman until the newly appointed Ombudsman officially takes office. This decision was made to ensure a seamless transition and maintain the functioning of the association.
The SGM also addressed the status of Lokpal Shailesh Kumar Sinha (Retired Judge, Patna High Court), who was appointed following a single bench decision of the Patna High Court on 5th August 2024. The Division Bench’s order on 7th October 2024, which stayed the actions and decisions taken by Sinha, was upheld in the meeting. Consequently, the SGM resolved to declare all decisions and actions by Sinha as null and void, reinforcing the BCA’s adherence to the directives of the higher court.
The meeting highlighted the BCA’s commitment to transparency and legal compliance, ensuring that its operations align with judicial orders and the best interests of cricket in Bihar.
