Higher ground charges may put grassroots Cricket at risk

By M Atif Ismail

MULTAN, Mar 29 (APP): A recent and substantial increase in cricket ground and pitch fees by the Punjab Sports Board has raised concerns among players and local stakeholders, who fear the move may discourage youth participation and impact grassroots cricket development.

The Punjab Sports Board has revised charges for cricket facilities across the province. Under the new structure, the monthly pitch fee has been set at Rs 7,000. Ground booking rates, excluding floodlights and generators, were now Rs 25,000 per day on Sundays, Rs 10,000 on Fridays, and Rs 3,000 on other days. The revised rates have been implemented with immediate effect, with directions issued for compliance across Punjab. The board manages around 550 grounds and numerous practice pitches in the province.

Cricketers and community representatives have expressed reservations about the decision, describing it as potentially detrimental to the promotion of cricket. They argue that a significant increase in costs may reduce accessibility and limit public participation, which plays a key role in sustaining the sport.

Naveed, a local player, said the revised charges could affect cricket activities at the community level, where the game is often played with limited resources. Rana Arif noted that many young players may find it difficult to continue due to the higher expenses.

Some players suggested that reducing or subsidizing fees would help keep facilities accessible and ensure continued engagement. Saad Qureshi highlighted that affordable access to grounds is important to maintain regular practice and participation.

According to players, the previous fee structure—approximately Rs 2,000 for ground booking and Rs 1,000 for pitch use—allowed clubs to organize sessions through shared contributions. The revised rates, they say, may be difficult to manage, particularly for students and players from modest backgrounds.

In Multan, where around 15 pitches and two major grounds operate under the Sports Board, players anticipate an immediate impact. Regular practice sessions and local matches may decline if clubs are unable to meet the increased costs.

Inayat, another player, said that if the decision is not reconsidered, participation could decrease, potentially limiting opportunities for emerging talent. Other players, including Tanveer, Mehran, Faizan, Muhammad Ali, and Mohabbat Ali, also voiced concern about the possible long-term effects on cricket development in the region.

Players emphasized that cricket holds significant cultural importance in Pakistan and is widely followed across different segments of society. They noted that reduced access to facilities could have implications for talent development over time.

They collectively urged the provincial authorities to review the decision and consider introducing a more balanced fee structure, including subsidies or concessions for registered clubs and young players.

As the new rates came into effect, concerns remain that reduced access to cricket facilities could affect grassroots participation, which has historically contributed to the country’s cricketing progress.