PANAJI
President of the Goa Cricket Association (GCA), Mahesh Dessai, has unveiled his vision to bring renewed purpose and professionalism to Goan cricket through a transparent, structured, and player-centric approach.
Expressing gratitude to all GCA members and clubs for their confidence in his leadership, Dessai said, “It is an honour to serve Goan cricket. My goal is to create an ecosystem where every cricketer ” from the grassroots to the senior level ” has the right infrastructure, coaching, and opportunities. The GCA will operate with complete transparency and accountability as we work to restore faith in the system.”
Highlighting the importance of inspiring the next generation, Dessai referred to India’s recent triumph in the Women’s World Cup semi-final against Australia, where Australia were bowled out for 337 and Jemimah Rodrigues played the innings of her life, taking India over the line and winning the World Cup for the country. He said such performances show what is possible when talent is supported with the right structures, belief, and opportunities ” something he aims to replicate for Goan cricketers.
Dessai’s roadmap for the association includes:
Infrastructure Development: Upgrading existing stadiums, improving ground facilities, and establishing new turf wickets and indoor practice centres across Goa.
Grassroots Strengthening: Introducing structured coaching programs and inter-school and inter-district tournaments to identify and nurture young talent.
Boosting Women’s Cricket: Launching dedicated training centres, tournaments, and mentorship programs for women cricketers.
Transparency and Governance: Ensuring merit-based selections, regular financial audits, and open communication with member clubs.
Capacity Building: Conducting refresher and certification courses for coaches and umpires to enhance technical quality.
He added, “We will work hand-in-hand with the BCCI, clubs, academies, and schools to make Goan cricket more competitive and professionally managed. Our focus will be on developing talent and giving every deserving player the platform to shine.”
The new GCA leadership also plans to revive inter-office, corporate, and veterans’ tournaments, and introduce community-level initiatives to bring fans closer to the sport.
