Mangaluru: The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has proposed the development of dedicated cricket infrastructure in Mangaluru and sought around 50 acres of land from the Mangaluru Urban Development Authority (Muda) for the project.

KSCA honorary president B K Venkatesh Prasad made the request in a letter to Muda chairperson Santhosh Kumar Shetty, stating that the association was prepared to invest in the required infrastructure and facilities.

Prasad said Mangaluru, being a district headquarters, needs adequate cricketing infrastructure to meet the requirements of aspiring players and provide them with opportunities to develop and showcase their talent.

“The KSCA is ready to invest in infrastructure and the development of the game in the district,” Prasad said, seeking Muda’s intervention in allotting suitable land for the proposed facilities.

According to Prasad, the land would be used exclusively for the promotion and development of cricket. The association has also assured the Karnataka government that development would be carried out in phases after the land is allotted and possession is handed over.

The KSCA plans to complete essential facilities, including drainage systems, practice areas and other basic amenities, within three years, he said.

Prasad added that the proposed infrastructure would benefit young cricketers from Mangaluru as well as adjoining areas by providing access to better playing and training facilities.

The KSCA has requested Muda to consider allotting the land either through outright purchase or on a long-term lease. It has also sought concessional rates applicable to educational and sports organisations under either arrangement.