When Rohan Jaitley took charge as the President of the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA), the organization was in dire straits. With only Rs 85 lakh in its coffers and outstanding debts amounting to Rs 14 crore for vendors and Rs 8 crore for coaches and support staff, the association faced a bleak future. Fast forward to today, DDCA stands as a shining example of exceptional leadership and financial recovery.
Under Jaitley’s stewardship, DDCA allocated over Rs 70 crore to refurbish the stadium in preparation for the 2023 Cricket World Cup, while also securing a Rs 100-crore fixed deposit. Cricket-related expenses now account for over 95% of the budget, showcasing a focused commitment to the game’s development.
The DDCA’s transformation wasn’t just financial; it was structural. Years of mismanagement and operational inefficiencies had plagued the association, leaving it in disarray. Jaitley, supported by Justice (retired) Mukul Mudgal, restored trust, accountability, and operational efficiency. His leadership ensured the resolution of pending debts, improved infrastructure with upgraded seats and floodlights, and introduced innovative measures like player insurance and pensions for former staff.
This turnaround is evident in the association’s revenue, with the DDCA generating Rs 65 crore from its T20 league, far surpassing other state associations. Delhi cricket now stands tall, reclaiming its position as a hub of talent and excellence.
The revival extends to grassroots cricket, where investments are nurturing the next generation of stars. Players like Mayank Yadav, Harshit Rana, Anuj Rawat, Hrithik Shokeen, Ayush Badoni, and Sanat Sangwan embody this resurgence, adding to Delhi’s rich legacy of producing cricketing legends such as Gautam Gambhir, Virender Sehwag, and Virat Kohli.
Delhi cricket is witnessing a renaissance, driven by Rohan Jaitley’s vision and dedication. With a solid infrastructure, financial stability, and a focus on nurturing talent, Delhi cricket is poised to continue contributing significantly to Indian cricket’s success on the global stage.