Kerala Blasters players plead BCCI to not host India-West Indies ODI in Kochi
After Sandesh Jhingan aired his views to Sportkseeda on Kerala Cricket Association's (KCA) decision to host the India-West Indies ODI at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kochi in the month of November, his teammates have come out in support as well.
The state's cricketing body has received flak and understandably so for attempting to host a cricket match on a newly laid football ground.
Kerala Blasters midfielder, Loken Meitei issued a heartfelt plea to KCA and the BCCI. The 20-year-old believes that hosting a cricket match on the surface will destroy people's hopes and the idea of what football stands for in the state of Kerala.
"I request the authorities to shift their cricket match between India and West Indies because Kerala Blasters is the only team which has the highest attendance in our home matches and the fans are so passionate about football. I request KCA and BCCI not to destroy the beauty of football in God's Own Country," he said.
Loken and Sandesh Jhingan's colleague, Deependra Negi too spoke to Sportskeeda about the ongoing saga. Not so long back, Negi came on as a substitute and scored a marvellous goal for Kerala Blasters at this very ground which is now at the centre of attention for all the wrong reasons.
Urging the KCA to take into account the humongous footballing culture in Kerala, Negi pointed to the fact that several high profile athletes like Sunil Chhetri, Sandesh Jhingan and even Sachin Tendulkar have similar opinions, clearly stating that the ODI should not be conducted at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, come what may.
"All the seniors and respective personalities are voicing their views on this topic, as for me I would just wish the KCA changes there decision and let this amazing pitch as it is. As we all know football is an important sport in this state and we should always respect each and every sport," he stated.