In a significant development for cricket administration in the coastal state, the Goa Cricket Association (GCA) has announced that its president, Mahesh Dessai, has been appointed as the team manager for the Indian cricket team during the upcoming home series against New Zealand. This appointment marks a notable honour for Goa's cricketing fraternity.
A Prestigious National Role for a Goa Administrator
The GCA stated that the selection of Dessai, a former Ranji Trophy cricketer himself, is a moment of great pride. The association highlighted that this decision by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) underscores the confidence in Dessai's administrative acumen, leadership qualities, and profound understanding of the game. His experience spans both on-field prowess as a former player and off-field expertise as an administrator.
Series Schedule and Dessai's Previous BCCI Role
The home assignment for Dessai will be the three-match ODI series between India and New Zealand. The schedule for the series is as follows:
- The first ODI will be played at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara on January 11.
- The second match is scheduled for January 14 in Rajkot.
- The series finale will take place in Indore on January 18.
This is not Dessai's first national-level responsibility. Back in 2017, the BCCI had appointed him as the match observer for India's first T20 International against New Zealand at the Ferozeshah Kotla ground in New Delhi. This new role as team manager is a step up in his administrative journey.
An Honour for Goa Cricket and Dessai's Commitment
Expressing his gratitude, Mahesh Dessai called it a privilege to serve Indian cricket at the national level. "I am deeply honoured by this appointment," Dessai said. He extended his thanks to ICC chairman Jay Shah, as well as the president, secretary, and the managing committee of the BCCI for entrusting him with this crucial responsibility.
Dessai further emphasised that this appointment is not just a personal achievement but a reflection of the disciplined administration, professionalism, and consistent efforts demonstrated by the Goa Cricket Association over the years. It positions Goa firmly on the national cricketing map, recognising the state's contribution to the sport's governance.
