In a somber turn of events, Delhi’s beloved Roshanara Club, a cradle of cricket history, faces the prospect of being sealed on September 29 due to the Delhi Development Authority’s (DDA) failure to renew its lease. This iconic venue, where the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was formed as a society in 1928, is set to meet its unfortunate fate in the early hours of September 29.
A source closely associated with the developments expressed their sadness, saying,
“Yes, it’s sad but true. The iconic Roshanara Club, widely regarded as the mecca of cricket in the capital, could be sealed tomorrow morning, around 6 am, as the DDA hasn’t renewed the lease of the premise. It is well and truly a dark day because the BCCI was formed as a society here, and so many major discussions regarding Indian cricket have taken place here.”
Over the years, Roshanara Club has been more than just a cricket ground. It has witnessed countless senior and age-group domestic fixtures and served as a training facility for IPL teams, especially during the COVID-19 bubble period. Additionally, it has been the go-to place for the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) to hold off-season and selection camps.
The historical significance of this venue runs deep. It has hosted numerous memorable First-Class matches, thrilling age-group encounters, and has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of Indian cricket.
For a considerable period, the DDCA even chose Roshanara Club as the venue for their must-win Ranji Trophy fixtures due to its lively pitch, where even the best cricketers have struggled.
However, Roshanara Club is not just about cricket. It retains an old-world charm and offers infrastructure for various other sports like tennis, squash, table tennis, and swimming, making it a multi-faceted sporting hub cherished by athletes and enthusiasts alike.