Mangaluru could be on its way to securing a major cricketing facility, with the Mangaluru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) exploring six potential locations for a proposed stadium after the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) sought around 50 acres of government land for developing cricket infrastructure in the coastal city.

MUDA chairman Santhosh Kumar Shetty inspected sites at Tannirbhavi, Bengre, Bondel, Mulur, Kandavara and Kudupu following a request from the KSCA. The visits were aimed at assessing the suitability of the locations for the proposed facility, which is envisaged as a boost to cricket development in Mangaluru and neighbouring districts.

The proposal could mark an important step towards strengthening sports infrastructure in coastal Karnataka, where aspiring cricketers need access to facilities that can support their training and development.

KSCA seeks 50 acres for cricket development

The site inspections followed discussions between MUDA and KSCA representatives on establishing cricketing facilities in Mangaluru.

In a letter to Shetty, KSCA president and former India cricketer Venkatesh Prasad sought around 50 acres of government land for the project, proposing either an outright purchase or a 50-year lease.

The association has expressed its willingness to invest in developing the facility, assuring the government that the land would be used exclusively to promote and develop cricket.

The request places particular emphasis on strengthening cricket infrastructure outside Bengaluru, enabling talented players from coastal Karnataka and neighbouring regions to access better training facilities closer to home.

Building opportunities beyond Bengaluru

The KSCA, a non-profit organisation registered under the Karnataka Societies Registration Act, has highlighted the growing contribution of players from districts outside Bengaluru to Karnataka’s cricketing talent pool.

According to the association, more than 40% of the Karnataka state team currently comprises players from outside Bengaluru, underlining the importance of developing facilities across the state.

As a major urban centre in coastal Karnataka, Mangaluru could serve as an important base for nurturing young cricketers from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and surrounding districts.

A well-equipped facility would provide aspiring players with better opportunities to train, develop their skills and pursue competitive cricket without having to depend entirely on infrastructure available in Bengaluru.

Centre of Excellence planned in phases

The KSCA has proposed developing the facility as a Centre of Excellence for cricket in the region.

According to the association’s letter, construction and development would be undertaken in phases after the land is allotted and handed over. Essential infrastructure, including drainage systems, practice facilities and basic amenities, is proposed to be completed within three years.

The association has also requested that the government consider allotting the land at the lowest rates applicable to educational and sports organisations, whether through an outright sale or a long-term lease.

The proposed investment would be undertaken by the KSCA, with the aim of creating facilities dedicated to cricket development and supporting the next generation of players.

Site selection remains a key step

The inspection of six locations represents an initial step in evaluating the proposal. The suitability of the sites will be important in determining the way forward for the proposed stadium and associated cricket facilities.

The project is expected to strengthen Mangaluru’s sports infrastructure if the land is allotted and development proceeds as proposed.

For aspiring cricketers in coastal Karnataka, the prospect of a dedicated cricketing facility offers the possibility of improved training opportunities and a stronger local pathway into competitive cricket.

However, the proposal remains at the site-assessment stage, with land allotment and subsequent development yet to take place.