Rohan Jaitley Re-Elected DDCA President, Promises New Stadium and Reforms

Rohan Jaitley has secured a decisive re-election as the President of the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA), vowing to continue his work in transforming Delhi's cricketing landscape. With a comprehensive win over challenger Kirti Azad, Jaitley has set the stage for further developments in the capital’s cricket ecosystem.

Rohan Jaitley

A Victory for Hard Work and Dedication

Jaitley’s panel triumphed with a clear mandate, winning all the key positions. Jaitley himself received 1,577 votes compared to Azad's 777, reflecting strong support for his leadership. His success marks the second full term as DDCA president, a position he has held since 2020. As president, he promises to prioritize significant infrastructure developments, including the creation of a new cricket stadium in Delhi and a revamped clubhouse at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, equipped with modern facilities for both players and members.

Strengthening the Grassroots and Infrastructure

Jaitley’s administration is committed to improving facilities for young cricketers, ensuring that talent from every background has access to the necessary resources. "Our focus is on creating an environment where every aspiring cricketer can thrive. From coaching to equipment, we will ensure that no player is left behind," Jaitley stated.

Moreover, plans for a new cricket stadium are in motion, with talks underway to acquire land for this ambitious project. The stadium will feature world-class facilities for both players and fans, further cementing Delhi's role as a key hub in Indian cricket.

Addressing Selection Concerns

One of the key issues that Jaitley plans to address during this tenure is the ongoing controversy around team selections. Following criticism over the naming of a large number of probables for the Ranji Trophy and the selection of a 24-member squad for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Jaitley clarified that the responsibility of team selection lies with the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) and not with the administrators.

“Under the Lodha reforms, administrators have minimal involvement in the selection process,” Jaitley assured. "We will ensure transparency and address concerns promptly," he added.

Focus on Welfare and Inclusivity

Beyond infrastructure, Jaitley’s vision also includes expanding welfare programs for former players, introducing health benefits, and enhancing opportunities for women in cricket. The success of the Delhi Premier League, a T20 tournament, has shown promising growth, providing competitive opportunities for both men and women.

"Over the past three years, we have worked on numerous initiatives such as the Delhi Premier League, healthcare schemes, and more. Our goal is to build a more inclusive cricketing ecosystem," Jaitley emphasized.

Response to Allegations

In the lead-up to the election, rival candidate Kirti Azad had accused Jaitley of mismanaging the funds allocated by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), suggesting that only a fraction of the ₹140 crore received by the DDCA was spent on cricket. However, Jaitley dismissed these allegations as baseless, emphasizing his administration's commitment to transparency and proper financial management.

“These accusations were not raised until the election period,” Jaitley said. "When you hold public office, it’s essential to be responsible and address issues with facts and evidence."

A Vision for the Future

As Jaitley embarks on his third term, he has set his sights on further transforming Delhi cricket, focusing on infrastructure, youth development, and inclusivity. With his re-election, Jaitley is poised to take Delhi cricket to new heights, building on his previous successes and addressing the challenges that lie ahead.

With his clear vision and leadership, Rohan Jaitley remains committed to making Delhi a significant player in India’s cricketing landscape, ensuring the next generation of cricketers has the tools to succeed.