Khar Gymkhana’s Padel Court Proposal Sparks Debate Over Cricket Ground Legacy
Mumbai: The Khar Gymkhana, which has over 4000 members, is considering a proposal to construct padel courts on an open space currently used as a cricket ground, triggering opposition from members who fear the move could affect the club’s cricketing legacy. The Gymkhana had convened a special general body meeting a few months ago to seek members’ approval for the proposal. However, the managing…
Mumbai's Khar Gymkhana, home to over 4,000 members, is proposing to build padel courts on a cricket ground, igniting controversy among cricket enthusiasts who fear the move could jeopardize the club's cricketing legacy. The Gymkhana held a special general body meeting to gather members' opinions on the matter, but the managing committee has not yet made a final decision.
Abhijeet Deolekar, a life member and prominent critic of the proposal, argues that preserving the cricket ground is crucial for maintaining competitive cricket and the club's cherished 92-year-old cricketing tradition. He asserts that once padel courts are built on the ground, it will no longer be suitable for cricket matches, a concern that has gained momentum, even drawing a stay order from the High Court over similar developments.
Deolekar emphasizes that the ground, which serves as one of the last open spaces in Mumbai's western suburbs, has a rich history and is vital for the club's cricket tournaments, including the Kanga League and Govardhandas Shield. The managing committee has yet to decide on the proposal, currently under review, and elections are set for September, adding to the urgency of reaching a resolution.
Written by urgent.news from Free Press Journal's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
