We don't need another death

Kanga League matches in progress at Mumbai’s Cross Maidan on September 17, 2023. Pic/Shadab Khan

Multiple matches taking place at one time in a Mumbai maidan was a sight that didn't miss the eyes of cricket-keen visitors to the city. For photographers touring India to cover matches, the Azad, Cross and Oval maidans were thriving grounds. Visits to Shivaji Park to soak in and capture the cricket action used to be undertaken too. We Mumbaikars took pride in the fact that others marvelled at our cricketing culture and packed maidans. But things changed on Tuesday when news of a cricketer (Jayesh Savla) getting killed by a ball while fielding filtered through.

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Amidst the gloom, we hear about a club cricketer who stopped playing after a stroke from him killed a beggar child a few years ago. Another batsman's shot resulted in a back injury to a passer-by. The facts are before us. This could happen to any kid or grown up if safety measures are not put in place. Jagdish Achrekar, until 2022, the Honorary Treasurer of the Mumbai Cricket Association, offered a few solutions.

He says, "The two pitches on which matches are being played should be reasonably spaced ie the pitches for matches on adjoining grounds should be at the farthest distance. Umpires and captains of both matches should come to an agreement that the bowler of Match A will pause before bowling so as to enable the match B bowler to bowl his delivery. After the completion of the delivery of Match B, the Match B bowler will pause and allow the Match A bowler to complete his delivery. Yes, a few minutes may be lost, but it can be compensated by curtailing the drinks and lunch breaks. After all, there is nothing more precious than life." It's time for all stakeholders of the game in the city to provide a safe environment for players and public. Action cannot wait even for a day.