PUCHONG: The Malaysian Cricket Association (MCA) have no plan B to save their home — the Kinrara Oval.
MCA president Mahinda Vallipuram said the national association aim to stick to their guns.
Last Saturday, it was reported that the five-hectare Kinrara Oval in Puchong is to be reclaimed by Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) on Oct 31.
Mahinda, who held a press conference at the Kinrara Oval today, said he is optimistic a civil discussion with the parties involved can lead to a positive outcome.
“At this point in time, it’s still plan A and that’s to stay here and see what we can do because I don’t think (it’s time) to go for plan B because we feel discussion is still possible,” said Mahinda.
“I think we just need to give time to the Sports Minister (Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman) to have a discussion. This is an ongoing battle that’s been going on for years.”
The MCA have been told to vacate the iconic Kinrara Oval, which houses their headquarters, national players’ hostel and training ground since 2005. With the lease ending on Oct 31, the developer wants back the land.
“We want to appeal to everyone to discuss on this,” said Mahinda who also revealed that Deputy Sports Minister Steven Sim has put MCA’s mind at ease following their meeting last Friday.
Mahinda said there is to be a three-way discussion among the Sports Ministry, MCA and the developer but the date of the meeting is yet to be confirmed.
The MCA have spent millions building the Kinrara infrastructure, and ensuring its pitch matches international standards. It has hosted various events including the Under-19 World Cup in 2008.
Even though the Oct 31 deadline is weeks away, Mahinda said many notable cricket associations have expressed an interest in holding their tournaments at Kinrara as its pitch is recognised by the International Cricket Council and the Asian Cricket Council.
“I know for a fact other countries want to use this (Kinrara Oval) and Hong Kong have used Malaysia thrice. There are some who want to use it for bilateral meets and also the T20 World Cup.
“Not only will it give Malaysia a home-grown advantage but it also brings up the country’s name as well,” said Mahinda who added that the pitch costs MCA about RM500,000 to maintain every year.
Recently, a group of nearby residents and young cricketers gathered at the Oval to protest against the move by the developer.
“Don’t kill the Game” and “Save Kinrara Oval” read the placards of the protesters.