Former Indian cricketer Venkatesh Prasad has been elected the President of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), securing a commanding victory in the polls held on Sunday. The former fast bowler defeated K N Shanta Kumar by 191 votes, earning 749 votes against Shanta Kumar’s 558.
Alongside Prasad, former India cricketer Sujith Somasunder has been elected Vice-President, while Santosh Menon—who earlier served as KSCA Secretary from 2019 to 2022—returns to the post once again.
Former umpire BK Ravi won the election for Joint Secretary with 669 votes, and BN Madhukar defeated MS Vinay for the post of Treasurer, securing 736 votes.
Prasad previously served as KSCA Vice-President from 2010 to 2013 and represented India in 33 Tests and 161 ODIs, making him one of the most experienced cricket administrators among the candidates.
Elections Postponed Earlier
The KSCA elections were originally scheduled for November 30 but were unexpectedly deferred. Prasad had publicly expressed his disappointment over the postponement.
“We were stunned to learn that the elections have been deferred to 30 December. The primary focus here should be cricket, not politics. We are not participating for political reasons. Our sole objective is to revive top-level cricket at Chinnaswamy Stadium and bring back international matches and IPL fixtures. That is our mission,” Prasad said in a media interaction, as per a press release.
He further highlighted concerns over reports that the Bengaluru IPL franchise might play matches outside the city. “Why should that happen?” he questioned.
Prasad emphasised that fresh leadership was essential at this juncture.
“To make this possible, these elections must take place. KSCA is at a pivotal juncture and needs change. Cricket is suffering right now, and the season is already underway. It is vital for elections to proceed so that a new committee can implement its vision,” he said, adding that they had “no issues with the Election Commission” but were taken aback by the decision.
With the elections now concluded and a new team in place, Prasad is expected to lead efforts to restore Karnataka’s prominence in Indian cricket, revive the Chinnaswamy Stadium’s international schedule, and strengthen domestic cricket structures.