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"Karnataka is suffering": Kumble, Srinath unite to back Venkatesh Prasad's KSCA bid

Akshita Patel

Venkatesh Prasad find allies for KSCA election [Source: @VaddepallyPrav, @PTI_News/X.com]Venkatesh Prasad find allies for KSCA election [Source: @VaddepallyPrav, @PTI_News/X.com]

Former India fast bowler Venkatesh Prasad has thrown his hat into the ring for the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) president’s post, with the elections set for November 30, 2025. 

Backed by Indian cricket legends Anil Kumble and Javagal Srinath, Prasad has promised to bring top-tier cricket back to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, which has been out of the spotlight following a series of controversies. 

Venkatesh Prasad gets support from Anil Kumble

To support Venkatesh Prasad ahead of the KSCA elections, Anil Kumble, who led KSCA between 2010 and 2013, backed Prasad’s campaign.

In a press conference, the former spinner said Karnataka Cricket is suffering, and Venkatesh is the one who could make a difference.

"Karnataka cricket has been suffering and Venky is here to make a difference. All the work we had put in during our three-year tenure [2010-2013] has been undone over the past many years," Kumble told reporters.

Anil Kumble also referenced the tragic stampede that claimed 11 lives outside Chinnaswamy Stadium during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s victory parade earlier this year. 

"Two key stakeholders have been neglected: cricketers and fans. Last week we won the Women's World Cup, and it was a landmark occasion. But we [Karnataka] didn't have a single representation. That needs to change," he added.

Calling it a “black day” in Bengaluru’s sporting history, Kumble urged the new panel to restore the ground’s lost glory and make it once again a temple of cricket.

Venkatesh Prasad promises transparency

Meanwhile, Venkatesh Prasad, who has served as KSCA vice-president in the past, assured fans that his panel would focus on transparency, safety, and collaboration with the state government. 

"We believe in having a proper dialogue with the government, and adhere to whatever the safety audit report has told us," Prasad said.

The KSCA has recently faced issues with power cuts and fire safety violations at the stadium, leading to the suspension of matches and events.

Prasad also plans to establish a dedicated women’s cricket academy in Bengaluru, on the same campus that once housed the National Cricket Academy.