The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) is in talks with Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University (CSJMU) to use the university’s newly developed stadium as a temporary base for trials, camps and practise, even as its own cricket centre in Unnao struggles to take off.
UP T20 League chairman Dr Sanjay Kapoor confirmed that talks were on. The need has become urgent. UPCA’s decades-long association with Kamla Club is nearing end, the lease not having been renewed, and the proposed redevelopment of Green Park could disrupt cricket at the city’s main stadium for two to three years. UPCA sees the facility as more than a practice ground. It could serve as an additional cricket centre hosting domestic competitions and, if it meets BCCI requirements, could eventually be listed as a recognised venue. In the longer term, it could also stage tournaments such as the UP T20 League and the Kanpur Premier League (KPL). Kamla Club, where trials, camps and practise were held for decades, is no longer available as UPCA’s lease has ended. The university’s sports directorate is handling the negotiations.
The agreement will initially run for one year and, if both sides agree, could be extended up to 10 years. Kamla Club has been a cricketing venue since 1928, integral to cricket in the state.
Sources said that the university leans towards the first proposal but wants a higher amount. University vice-chancellor Dr Vinay Pathak said matters were headed towards being finalised. Sports director Dr Sravan Yadav said a few issues still needed to be ironed out. “We have sent a revised agreement to UPCA, and it will be discussed at the next meeting,” he said.
