SCA blames MCA president James PK Sangma for refusing to sign cheques
SHILLONG, June 23: A deepening financial and administrative impasse in the Meghalaya Cricket Association (MCA) has put the state’s ability to host Ranji Trophy home matches in serious jeopardy, with the Shillong Cricket Association (SCA) squarely blaming MCA president James P.K. Sangma’s refusal to sign approved cheques.
The deadlock, now stretching for months, has paralysed cricket operations across Meghalaya — halting infrastructure development, player preparation, salary payments, and district-level activities. SCA president Peter Macdonald Kharsawian warned that unless resolved immediately, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) could deem the Polo Ground unfit, stripping Meghalaya of hosting rights.
“The constitution is very clear on the issue of signatories. The honorary secretary and treasurer have already signed the cheques, but the president has refused to do so. As a result, funds cannot be released and the entire functioning of the association has been affected,” Kharsawian told reporters.
He explained that the crisis stems from a dispute between Sangma and five other Apex Council members led by honorary secretary Rayonald Kharkamni. Funds meant for cricketing activities and ground upkeep remain blocked despite approvals, violating the MCA’s three-signatory requirement for financial transactions.
The standoff has left support staff unpaid for seven months, stalled developmental works, and left district associations without funds. Inter-district tournaments — vital for talent identification — have not been held, while player trials and coaching camps that should have started in May remain pending.
The situation at the Polo Ground, Meghalaya’s main venue, is particularly alarming. Shrubs are overgrowing sections of the outfield, and all nine pitches require major refurbishment, including soil replacement and levelling. With only weeks left before a crucial BCCI inspection in July, further delay could render the ground unplayable for domestic fixtures.
Representatives from all ten district cricket associations met Sangma in May urging resolution, but the issue persists. Frustrated by the inaction, they have now approached the BCCI seeking direct intervention.
MCA vice-presidents Alex Lynser and Suprio Dhar, along with treasurer Mackie D. Blah, echoed these concerns, highlighting the adverse effects on players, staff, and the upcoming domestic season.
Kharsawian called on the MCA leadership to rise above personal differences and sign the pending cheques without further delay. “Every activity has come to a standstill,” he said. “We fail to understand the reason behind this continued reluctance.”
The SCA warned that the crisis risks derailing Meghalaya’s cricketing calendar, player development programmes, and future hosting opportunities unless normal administration is restored.
