DDCA Turmoil: Ashok Sharma’s Eligibility Questioned as Vinod Tihara Calls for New Elections
Unrest has once again surfaced within the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) as former secretary Vinod Tihara has called for a Special General Meeting. He urges current president Rohan Jaitley and Apex Council members to conduct fresh elections for the secretary position. Tihara’s concerns stem from the impending disqualification of current secretary Ashok Sharma, who is set to complete a nine-year tenure by September 30, 2025. This situation has sparked considerable debate within the DDCA, especially as the domestic cricket season approaches.
Call for Fresh Elections
Vinod Tihara has formally requested that the DDCA hold a Special General Meeting to address the secretary position. In a detailed 28-page document sent to all office bearers, Tihara outlined his reasoning, emphasizing that Ashok Sharma will be disqualified from his role after September 30 due to the completion of his nine-year term as an Apex Council Member. Tihara’s letter cites the Constitution of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the DDCA’s own revised rules, which were adopted in August 2018, as the basis for this disqualification.
Tihara’s assertion has led to a flurry of discussions within the DDCA, with some members arguing that Sharma’s previous roles do not classify him as an “office bearer,” thereby allowing him to continue in his position. This disagreement has fueled a sense of urgency among DDCA members, as they seek clarity before the cricket season begins. An influential member of the association stated, “If Ashok Sharma is not eligible, then there shouldn’t be a problem for fresh elections. We should stick to the rules. Cricket can’t suffer.”
Current Leadership’s Silence
Despite the growing unrest, both President Rohan Jaitley and Secretary Ashok Sharma have remained silent when approached for comments regarding the situation. Their lack of response has left many in the DDCA anxious about the future of the association and its leadership. The tension is palpable, especially considering the close contest between Sharma and Tihara during the 2024 elections, where Sharma won by a narrow margin of 149 votes.
As the domestic cricket season looms, the DDCA’s leadership crisis could have significant implications for the organization. The uncertainty surrounding the secretary position may hinder the association’s ability to function effectively, which is a concern for many stakeholders involved in Delhi cricket.
Support Staff Delays
In addition to the leadership turmoil, the DDCA is facing delays in finalizing its support staff for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Despite having received applications for various positions months ago, the state cricket body has yet to appoint the necessary personnel. While other cricket associations across the country are actively engaging in preparatory tournaments and camps, the DDCA remains in a state of indecision regarding its support staff.
This lack of progress is particularly troubling as the cricket season approaches. The absence of a cohesive support team could impact the performance of players and the overall success of the association. As the DDCA grapples with both leadership and operational challenges, the need for swift resolution becomes increasingly critical to ensure that cricket in Delhi does not suffer.
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