By Our Reporter
Shillong, March 8: The Meghalaya Cricket Association (MCA) has withdrawn the age restriction imposed on its senior teams after only one season, signalling a shift in policy aimed at making team selection more flexible and inclusive.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the association’s Apex Council chaired by MCA president James PK Sangma, according to an official statement issued on Saturday.
The age cap had originally been introduced in November 2024 ahead of the 2025–26 domestic season. The measure was intended to create greater opportunities for younger cricketers to gain exposure at the senior level and accelerate the development of emerging talent within the state.
However, after reviewing the impact of the policy, the council concluded that the rule had unintended consequences. Officials observed that the restriction had effectively prevented several experienced players from representing the state side despite maintaining competitive form and fitness.
Sangma said that the association had therefore decided to remove the cap and return to a more traditional selection approach. “Selection for the senior teams will now be determined purely on the basis of performance, merit and fitness,” he stated, emphasising that the aim was to ensure the best available players represent Meghalaya in domestic competitions.
In another significant move, the MCA also lifted a previously imposed restriction that barred players from participating in tennis-ball cricket tournaments. The association acknowledged that the rule had penalised players who continued to engage with the format, which remains one of the most widely played forms of the game across the state.
Sangma noted that discouraging such participation was counterproductive in a region where many cricketers first learn the sport through informal formats. “Meghalaya cricket is still evolving and we cannot afford to push anyone away from the game,” he said, stressing that inclusivity must remain a priority for the association.
Echoing this sentiment, former state cricketer and MCA member Mark Ingty said the association intends to support all formats that help promote the sport at the grassroots level.
He pointed out that in several districts across Meghalaya, the lack of adequate leather-ball facilities means tennis-ball cricket continues to serve as an important entry point for aspiring players.
The council also approved the revival of the association’s Under-19 tournaments for both boys and girls, competitions that had been suspended over the past two seasons.
The decision followed recommendations made by Honorary Joint Secretary Mebanphira Swer and Apex Council member Chuba Marak.
According to MCA vice-president Rajiv Bareh, restarting these tournaments is crucial for nurturing young talent. He emphasised that regular competitive opportunities during the formative years are vital for developing skills and preparing players for higher levels of the game.
Administrative matters were also addressed during the meeting, with the council ratifying the appointment of BD Agarwal, a retired judge of the Gauhati High Court, as the association’s Ombudsman.
The position, mandated under governance reforms recommended by the Lodha Committee and implemented by the Supreme Court of India, had remained vacant since the end of the previous Apex Council’s tenure. The appointment restores an independent mechanism through which players and members can address grievances.
In addition, the council deliberated on findings from an internal audit that had highlighted several compliance shortcomings within the organisation.
Sangma said the newly elected leadership is committed to addressing these issues. “As the present governing body of the MCA, we must work towards closing these compliance gaps that have existed for some time. Strengthening the administrative framework will ultimately ensure smoother functioning and contribute to the long-term development of cricket in Meghalaya,” he added.
