In a significant development for Karnataka cricket, former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad has emerged as the new President of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), following a closely watched and hotly contested election. The polls, held on December 8, 2025, saw Prasad secure a decisive victory, collecting 749 votes and defeating his rival, K N Shanta Kumar, who garnered 558 votes. The margin—a solid 191 votes—reflects both Prasad’s standing within the cricketing community and a strong mandate for change at the helm of Karnataka cricket.
The KSCA elections, originally slated for November 30, had been postponed, a move that caught many off-guard and sparked considerable debate within cricketing circles. Prasad himself was among those surprised by the deferment. “We were stunned to learn that the elections have been deferred to 30 December. The primary focus here should be cricket, not politics. We are not participating for political reasons. Our sole objective is to revive top-level cricket at Chinnaswamy Stadium and to bring back international matches and IPL fixtures. That is our mission. We also hear that the Bengaluru franchise might play some matches outside Bengaluru. Why should that happen?” Prasad told the media, voicing sentiments that resonated widely among players and fans alike.
Prasad’s election marks a return to familiar territory for the former Indian international, who previously served as KSCA vice president from 2010 to 2013. His cricketing credentials are well-established: 33 Test matches and 161 One Day Internationals for India, a testament to his experience on the field and his understanding of the game’s nuances. Now, he takes on the challenge of steering Karnataka cricket through a pivotal period, where administrative vision and sporting ambition must go hand in hand.
But Prasad will not be alone in this endeavor. The election also brought in a fresh slate of office bearers, each with their own notable cricketing and administrative backgrounds. Former India cricketer Sujith Somasunder was elected Vice-President, while Santosh Menon, who previously served as Secretary from 2019 to 2022, returns to the post. The role of Joint Secretary will be filled by former umpire BK Ravi, who secured 669 votes, and BN Madhukar clinched the Treasurer position with 736 votes, defeating MS Vinay. This blend of former players and seasoned administrators promises both continuity and fresh perspectives for the KSCA.
For many observers, the election result signals a desire for rejuvenation within the KSCA. Prasad, in his post-election remarks, did not shy away from addressing the challenges ahead. “To make this possible, these elections must take place. That is the natural course of action. KSCA is at a pivotal juncture and needs change. Cricket is suffering right now, and the season is already underway. It is vital for elections to proceed so that a fresh committee can implement its vision. We have no issues with the Election Commission and fully respect their decisions. However, this postponement has come as a complete surprise,” he stated, underlining the urgency of restoring focus to the sport itself.
The context of Prasad’s election cannot be ignored. The KSCA, one of the most influential state cricket bodies in India, has long played a crucial role in nurturing talent, organizing tournaments, and hosting marquee matches at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Over the years, the association has been instrumental in producing cricketing legends and providing a platform for emerging stars. Yet, recent seasons have seen concerns mount over the scheduling of international fixtures, the possibility of IPL matches moving away from Bengaluru, and the need to revitalize cricketing infrastructure across the state.
Prasad’s campaign tapped into these anxieties, promising a return to basics and a renewed emphasis on cricketing excellence. His assertion that “the primary focus here should be cricket, not politics” struck a chord with stakeholders weary of administrative wrangling. The mention of the Bengaluru franchise potentially playing matches outside the city only heightened the sense of urgency among fans, who view the Chinnaswamy Stadium as a hallowed ground for both domestic and international cricket.
Meanwhile, the composition of the new KSCA leadership team suggests a strategic blend of experience and innovation. Sujith Somasunder, the new Vice-President, brings his own playing pedigree to the table, while Santosh Menon’s return as Secretary provides continuity. BK Ravi’s background as an umpire adds an important dimension of on-field perspective, and BN Madhukar’s election as Treasurer points to a focus on financial transparency and resource management—vital for an association overseeing major events and grassroots development alike.
The deferred elections, which had initially been set for November 30, had threatened to disrupt the ongoing cricket season, with uncertainty hanging over key administrative decisions. Prasad’s vocal disappointment over the postponement was echoed by many within the cricketing fraternity, who feared that off-field distractions might hamper player development and the scheduling of crucial matches. Now, with the new leadership in place, attention is expected to shift swiftly back to the pitch, where Karnataka’s storied cricketing tradition continues to inspire future generations.
Looking ahead, Prasad and his team face a packed agenda. Among the immediate priorities are reviving top-level cricket at Chinnaswamy Stadium, ensuring that international matches and IPL fixtures remain a staple for Bengaluru fans, and strengthening the pipeline for young talent across the state. The new President’s stated mission to “bring back international matches and IPL fixtures” will be watched closely, especially as Karnataka continues to produce players who make an impact on the national stage.
Yet, challenges remain. The competitive landscape of Indian cricket administration is notoriously complex, marked by shifting alliances and high expectations from fans and players alike. The KSCA’s ability to navigate these waters, while staying true to its sporting roots, will determine whether Prasad’s tenure is remembered as a period of genuine renewal or simply another chapter in the association’s eventful history.
For now, the mood in Karnataka cricket is one of cautious optimism. With Venkatesh Prasad at the helm, supported by a team of respected peers, there’s a palpable sense that the association is ready to turn the page and refocus on what matters most: the game itself. Whether this new leadership can deliver on its promises will become clear in the months ahead, but for today, Karnataka cricket fans have reason to believe that a fresh start is finally underway.