I take it as honour to inform that Andhra Cricket Association, under the dynamic leadership of Dr. Gokaraju Gangaraju, has made tremendous progress

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1 It gives me immense pleasure to inform that Dr. Gokaraju Gangaraju has done exemplary service to Andhra Cricket Association. I know Dr. Gangaraju and his father and both of them are people of noble heart. They are always keen to serve the society. Recently I inaugurated the picturesque twin grounds at Mulapadu in Krishna District. I also inaugurated the first- ever historical Test match at Visakhapatnam. After taking a look at the grounds and other infrastructure in different districts of A.P, I am thrilled by the dedicated efforts put in by Dr. Gangaraju and his team. I requested Dr. Gangaraju to give a proposal for developing adventure sports on the hillocks of Mulapadu and other sports infrastructure across the State. Top officials of BCCI, recognising his services made him the Vice President of BCCI. I would like to appreciate Dr. Gangaraju, his team of office bearers and members of ACA, who stood by him in all his endeavours in moulding ACA as a role model association in the country. 1 1

2 I take it as honour to inform that Andhra Cricket Association, under the dynamic leadership of Dr. Gokaraju Gangaraju, has made tremendous progress in terms of development of game and infrastructure across the state of AP. I have been watching Dr. Gangaraju in BCCI meetings. He comes to the meetings with one agenda - to seek facilities to ACA, demand postings for ACA members in sub committees of BCCI and more number of international matches for the association. He always sought the coveted Test status to Dr. Y.S.R. ACA-VDCA stadium at Visakhapatnam. I am happy to say that this man has passion for Andhra cricket, cricketers and administrators. He is one of the most successful cricket administrators of the country and I wish him all the best in all his endeavours. 2 2

3 During my tenure as cricket administrator, I saw a lot of people doing more talking and less doing. During my visit to Andhra Cricket Association, I was fortunate to see spectacular grounds and infrastructure at Mulapadu and Mangalagiri. It was a pleasent surprise to see the development that has taken place in the 13 districts of ACA. Till date I was of the opinion that Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association is the only association which had developed grounds and established academies. But after seeing the ACA grounds, four residential academies for boys and girls and learning about grants offered as stipends to deserving boys and girls, the transparency in administration and the financial discipline, I have no second thought in calling ACA as Aadarsh Cricket Association. I bow to the spirit and teamwork exhibited by Gangaraju and his team. I wish and pray to see many boys and girls from Andhra representing Indian teams and bring laurels to the country. 3 3

4 I am happy today because I am the President of ACA which is celebrating it s diamond jubilee in a befitting manner. Nothing can give me more happiness than supporting and recognizing the present and former cricketers who brought laurels to our State. I sincerely appreciate Dr. Gangaraju and his team for enhancing the pride and dignity of the association with their committed work. I feel it as an honour for having worked along with him. He is a man of committment and I know inspite of many troubles he had faced - be it ACB, Income Tax raids on his business, political and social pressures, he stood by his principles and guided the association to prosperity. Though we are two wheels of the same cycle, he drove the vehicle in a balanced manner and I only supported him in the interesting journey. More than anyone else, ACA requires Gangaraju and his services. I wish and pray that under his leadership Andhra scales greater heights in times to come. 4 4

5 As the Honorary President of Andhra Cricket Association, I felt happy when I learnt that the members, office bearers and staff of ACA have come up with the idea of releasing a book that contained contributions of Dr. G. Gangaraju to ACA. It is a tribute to a man who was instrumental in converting Andhra Cricket Association into the most- progressive organisation in the country. Some of the landmark decisions taken during his tenure paved the way for many associations in the country to emulate ACA. Some of them are stipend schemes for deserving boys and girls, establishment of academies, bringing in professionals, transparency in financial management and maintaining relationships within the State unit and BCCI. It is difficult to step into the shoes of Dr. Gangaraju as his commitment and tenacity cannot be matched. But we will try and and follow the path laid by Gangaraju in keeping ACA flag flying high. 5 5

6 I have the pleasure of visiting Andhra Cricket Association s infrastructure at Mangalagiri, Mulapadu and Vishakapatnam. Indeed it takes lot of dedication and passion to build such worldclass infrastructure. I whole heartedly congratulate Dr. Gangaraju who was the chief architect responsible for turning the fortunes of the association. My interaction with him was good enough to gauge how passionate he is to see the development of ACA in all fronts. The funds that BCCI disburses have been put to proper use for the right cause under his dynamic leadership. I am sure his successors will also follow the path laid by him. Right from my childhood I had the impression that Andhra Team was just a pushover. If we could pick up Amit Pathak and MSK Prasad s wickets, Andhra team will fall like a pack of cards. These were the notions of the past. 6

7 Today Andhra teams have solid players who are making a big impact in domestic circuit. It may be appropriate to say that in times to come Andhra will be a potential force in Indian cricket. Apart from infrastructure, I was also impressed with the academy concept developed by MSK Prasad and being nurtured by Dr. Suratwala with committed coaches and support staff. Rahul Dravid having a stroll in the picturesque ground at Mulapadu, Krishna District Education is an integral part of sport and I am really happy that ACA Academies have also taken up the big task of providing education simultaneously with cricket. I have travelled across the length and breadth of the cricketing world, and I feel the academies developed by Dr. Gangaraju and his team are of international standards. ACA Secretary Ch. Arun Kumar explaining about the academy systems to the legendary cricketer I wish that Andhra cricketers should make use of this infrastructure and enhance their skils and achieve their goals and at the same time go on to become successful citizens of the country. Rahul Dravid walks past a room which is named after him in the academy I was told that ACA is paying a tribute to Dr. Gangaraju through this book and I am extremely happy to offer my piece of appreciation to a well-deserved personality. After a wonderful message received from Rahul Dravid the academy kids pose for a photograph with him. 7

8 I take this opportunity to congratulate Dr. Gangaraju for his commitment and efforts to transform Andhra cricket in the last five years. He not only made changes in administration but also made massive impact on the development of the game in Andhra Pradesh. For any state association to excel in the sport you require to provide quality infrastructure and also have passionate people who understand the intricacies of the sport. I am not surprised that this responsibility was given to my childhood friend and former India wicket-keeper MSK Prasad who, during his playing days, took a lot of pride in wearing the Andhra colours and always had the best intentions for the cricketers from Andhra. I would like to appreciate the efforts of Dr. Gangaraju and his team who stood rock solid in building ACA into a powerhouse for cricket and also exhibited progressive mindset. I had the privilege of inaugurating the residential academy in Mangalagiri and it gives me immense pleasure to know that the academy has 8

9 become the feeding ground for various Andhra cricket teams which are excelling in domestic cricket. It is great to see some of the academy players representing Team India at Junior level with a lot of success. I was also part of the ACA s Diamond Jubilee celebrations along with Javagal Srinath. Words cannot describe the way VVS Laxman inaugurates ACA Academy at Mangalagiri it was conducted and the way ACA honoured its past cricketers since it s inception along with current cricketers. It was a very noble gesture by ACA to recognise and honour the contributions of its past cricketers by paying Offering prayers for the success of the academy them a cheque amounting to Rs 2.5 crores. Apart from supporting cricketers, ACA also supports players from other sports and many deserving sportspersons were beneficiaries of this magnanimity of ACA. Words of wisdom to the academy kids Finally I would like to appreciate Dr. Ganga Raju for his untiring service to ACA and I am sure that a lot of people will get inspired by this visionary and will learn from what he has done to Andhra cricket and cricketers in such a short span of time. ACA richly pays tribute to their leader and source of inspiration through this book. Inspiring the young minds 9

10 Dr. Gangaraju did his schooling in Hyderabad Public School and shared the class room with many sportspersons. His passion for sports in general and cricket in particular was nurtured in school. Not many people know that Gangaraju has represented the cricket team of Hyderabad Public School during his school days. He also represented junior State for ACA and he represented South Zone schools where he played against yesteryear legends like Hanumant Singh, Kailash Gattani, Ashok Mankad and Eknath Solkar. Hyderabad Public School Dr. Gangaraju s love for cricket started from school days Later he did his graduation in pharmacy at Andhra University, Visakhapatnam. During his college days he captained Andhra University cricket team for two years. Being a passionate sportsman, he excelled in other sports too. He represented tennis for AU team. After completing his graduation he started his own pharmacy company and diversified into various businesses. He was away from sports for two decades untill unforeseen circumstances forced him to enter Krishna District Cricket Association. Sharing an incident, he said as the captain of AU College team he defeated Andhra Medical College in the final of Dr. Ebden memorial trophy tournament in Vizag. When he took the trophy to show it to his principal, he, instead of congratulating, advised Dr. Gangaraju to concentrate on studies as well. Dr. Gangaraju all set to strike Young Gangaraju with Dr. Ebden Memorial Trophy 10 10

11 For many people who are steadily progressing in their chosen field, taking up new ventures or responsibilities is a big no-no. They avoid such a deviation. But some, despite their busy schedule and commitment, find time to take up new challenges more so when it is question of Dr. Gangaraju taking charge as secretary KDCA protecting genuine people facing hardships while functioning in an organisation. One such person is Dr. Gokaraju Gangaraju. Despite his hectic professional and social schedule, when the office bearers of the Krishna Police Commissioner and President KDCA Mr. Surendra Babu welcoming Dr. Gangaraju into KDCA District Cricket Association approached him to restore normalcy in the rift-ridden Krishna District Cricket Association, he came out in full support of them who were fighting for a genuine Dr. Gangaraju meeting the officials of KDCA cause and resolved the issue amicably and made things easy for Andhra Cricket Association. In fact KDCA, under his stewardship hosted the firstever ODI at IGMC stadium in Vijayawada during Meeting the players after taking charge of KDCA

12 On November 24 th 2002 When BCCI allotted ODI to Vijayawada Dr. Gangaraju played a key role in the smooth conduct of the match between India and West Indies. When the match was allotted, the then Secretary of ACA Sri N. Venkata Rao, was worried about the ICC norms with regard to Officials of ODI organising committee pavilion, dressing rooms, commentary box and galleries. At that juncture Gangaraju entered the scene and stood rock solid behind Venkat Rao and personally monitored the completion of all South pavilion constructed by Dr. Gangaraju for the ODI the ICC requirements in a short span of time. He also brought in ICC observer Mike Proctor and convinced him that the facilities were as per the ICC standards. Commentators Ravi Shastri and Mike Holding Dr. Gangaraju greeting India skipper Rahul Dravid Gangaraju spent a huge money from his pocket in getting the south gallery ready. He also monitored the construction of east and west galleries. The match was treat for Vijayawada public which was eventually won by the West Indies

13 Family members of Dr. Gangaraju and other officials witnessing the match Tollywood heroes Venkatesh, Srikanth and Tarun ACA felicitates legendry cricketer Viv Richards ACA felicitates A. Yellarao for providing a brilliant pitch and the outfield for the ODI Commentator Ravi Shastri having a word with skipper Rahul Dravid during post match presentation Ravi Shastri having a word with man of the match Marlon Samuels during post match presentation Victorious West Indies team Indira Gandhi Municipal Corporation Stadium, soaked with light 13 13

14 Dr. Gangaraju was busy in his his own life and was not active in cricket administration. When a group of administrators looked up to him to bring in a change in Andhra Cricket Association, he instantly agreed and brought in the much-needed change. After ushering in the change he did not occupy any major portfolio in the association. This was in Once again in , the image of ACA was tarnished by certain unforeseen events forcing Dr. Gangaraju to take tough measures and introduced a system of discipline in ACA. The entire general body members of ACA unanimously wanted him to be the vital functionary for which he humbly agreed. On many occasions Dr. Gangaraju publicly said that owing to his commitment to the larger interest of the association he had to be harsh on certain individuals who were otherwise his friends. He had to forego his friendship and give utmost priority to the cause and for principles he stood for and also for the members who sincerely wanted him to steer the association forward. From then on the progress of ACA has been phenomenal and the game development, infrastructure, development of the academies, welfare of the players and members topped the agenda. Now the system is helping the association run like a well-oiled machine. The legacy left behind by Dr. Gangaraju is difficult to emulate, but the present administrators are leaving no stone unturned in continuing the trend set by the visionary administrator. ACA salutes the dynamic, large - hearted and the fatherly- figure Dr. Gangaraju and wishes and hopes that his guidance will always be there for the progress of the ACA which is called as the Aadarsh Cricket Association

15 Dr. Gangaraju has brought democratic system in the functioning of ACA. He was instrumental for conducting elections in 2007, 2011 and 2015 in a fair manner by roping in election officers of reputation like Sri Sashibhushan IAS, Sri B.L. K. Reddy, former Major General in Indian Air Force and requested BCCI to send observers to oversee the election process. By the end of 2015, Gangaraju brought all the members on one platform which has eventually helped in the smooth and successful running of the association. Dr. Gangaraju meeting and greeting the members of both the groups Victorious group having a lighter moment Lagadapati Rajagopal declaring the winners General Body members posing for a picture 15 15

16 The ACA election in 2011 was full of drama, thirlls and frills. There was political pressure that was imposed by the rival group and more than 25 cases were filed on Gangaraju group. An ACB case was filed to put pressure on the ruling group. All the cases against Gangaraju group backfired on the opposition and ACB gave a clean chit and Election Officers on the job Incumbent office bearers prior to the election appreciated Gangaraju and his team for running the association in a most transparent manner. In the AGM held on 2011 for the first time in the history of ACA, the elections were held in the process of secret ballot and more than 2/3 of the members reposed their faith on Dr. G. Gangaraju s panel and voted for them, which showed the confidence of the members on him. Dr. Gangaraju and his group members Opposition group members Mr. B.L.K. Reddy was the election officer appointed by ACA. Mr. Sashibhushan, IAS, was appointed by High Court of Andhra Pradesh and Sri Kasi Viswanathan was sent by BCCI to oversee the election process. All three of them appreciated the manner in which elections were conducted and declared D. V. Subba Rao- Gangaraju group as winners. Election officers declaring the result 16 16

17 ACA election in 2015 was the easiest one when compared to the last three elections. It was a mere formality as there was no opposition as Dr. Gangaraju won the hearts of the ruling and the opposition group as well. Capt. B.L.K. Reddy, who was the election officer, declared the election unaminous in favour of Gangaraju - Somayajulu team. ACA office bearers and members and Captain B.L.K. Reddy (election officer) during the proceedings of 62nd general body ACA office bearers and members during the proceedings of 62nd general body ACA members having a chat during the proceedings of 62nd general body Captain B.L.K. Reddy awarding the certificate Newly-elected office bearers for the term

18 Selecting the right man for the right job is the essence of any management and that is what Dr. Gangaraju has done after taking over the responsibility as Secretary of ACA. He has identified the inherent skills in each member and allotted portfolios accordingly. For instance, he has set up a legal wing and made Sri D.V.Subba Rao, a reputed legal legend (former / Bar Council President of India) as the chairman of the legal committee. The committee also had reputed lawyers like Sri D.V.S.S. Somayajulu, M.V. Siva Reddy, Sri N.Mohan Das, D.Nageswara Raju, P. Sunil Ratna Kumar, Ch. Pratap Kumar etc. He also set up infrastructure committee naming himself as the chairman as he has vast experience in the field of construction. He had reputed people like Sri Ch.Arun Kumar, Sri V. UmaMaheswar, Sri M.A. Rahim etc., as the members. He has set up a cricket development committee with former Ranji Trophy captains like K.S.Bhaskara Rama Murthy, M.N.Ravi Kumar, V.Sathya Prasad Yachendra and this committee was headed by former Indian cricketer M.S.K.Prasad. He has also Dr. G. Gangaraju with his committed lieutenants The golden partnership of Sri D.V. Subbarao and Dr. G. Gangaraju the paved the way for ACA success brought in former IRS officer Sri M.A. Rahim as the treasurer of ACA because of which ACA stands as role model in the country in terms of financial transparency and the Delloitte (consultant company hired by BCCI) report on ACA is self explanatory. After taking over the reins of ACA, Dr. Ganga Raju enhanced the annual grant from a meagre Rs.15,000/- per annum in 2007 to Rs. 15,00,000/- per annum for each district 18 18

19 from He has also extended financial assistance to districts which had infrastructure and cricketing activity. He played a key role in generating maximum revenue by conducting international events. In 2004, ACA generated a gross revenue of Rs. 1 crore for India-Pakistan ODI held at ACA - VDCA Stadium, Visakhapatnam, with the combination of instadia advertisement D.V. Subbarao, Dr. Gangaraju and M.A. Rahim unveiling the logo of ACA Diamond Jubilee ACA Cricket Committee headed by M.S.K. Prasad (DCO) Members - M.N. Ravi Kumar, K. Bhaskar Ramamurthy, V. Satya Prasad rights, sale of tickets and corporate boxes. After renegotiation, Dr. Ganga Raju has been instrumental in generating a gross revenue of Rs. 4 crores with combination of instadia advertising rights, sale of tickets and corporate boxes in the year This increase has largely been because of the vast business acumen and experience that he has in running his business empire. The success of Andhra Cricket Association has largely been because of the management skills exhibited by Dr. Gangaraju and his committed team of office bearers, members of ACA

20 I deem it as great pride and privilege to share my experience that I had with Dr. Gangaraju during my tenure with ACA as Director Cricket Operations. I joined ACA in December I had the privilege of travelling extensively across the length and breadth of Andhra Pradesh along with Dr. Gangaraju. During our journey we realised that the State was badly in need of quality Dr. Gangaraju mentoring M.S.K. Prasad coaching and infrastructure right from the grass root level. Till 2009 we had only three full-time coaches working with ACA. We thought we needed to provide quality coaches across all levels. We had employed two Level - A coaches in all 13 districts headquarters. Later we started three sub centres for each district and employed one Level - O coach per each sub centre. Subseqeuntly we started three zonal academies and employed three coaches per each academy. We also designed a similar structure for women s cricket at Guntur. Apart from the academy coaches, we are also utilising the services of former cricketers who have taken up coaching after retirement. I thoroughly enjoyed my stint with ACA under the dynamic leadership of Dr. Gangaraju, members and office bearers of ACA. The cricket committee gave me free hand to run the operations and we tried our level best in the development Dr. Kinjal Suratwala, GM, Game Development, ACA of game in Andhra Pradesh. Today I have moved on to BCCI as chairman of Senior Selection Committee. My absence will not be felt as Dr. Kinjal Suratwala, who had worked in NCA for more than a decade, has taken over as the General Manager (Game Development) and I am sure with his rich experience at NCA, the players and Andhra Cricket Association will benefit a lot

21 J. Krishna Rao Head Coach Level - C C.Z. Academy C.D. Thomson Head Coach Level - C N.Z. Academy N. Nirmal Kumar Asst. Coach Level - B C.Z. Academy B. Madhusudan Reddy Head Coach Level - B S.Z. Academy Vikram Varma Asst. Coach Level-B N.Z. Academy Venkat Nagesh Asst. Coach Level - A N.Z. Academy Imtiaz Ahmed Asst. Coach Level - A C.Z. Academy Srinivas Asst. Coach Level - A S.Z. Academy Krishna Kishore Asst. Coach Level - A C.Z. Academy 21 21

22 ACA WOMEN S ACADEMY STAFF Srinivas Reddy Head Coach Level - B ACA Women s Academy Diana David Asst. Coach ACA Women s Academy Ramadevi Asst. Coach ACA Women s Academy Koteswara Rao Physical Trainer ACA Women s Academy Sahaja Physio ACA Women s Academy Shekhar Raju Talent Hunt ACA Women s Academy Kishore Raju Talent Hunt ACA Women s Academy Ramamurthy Talent Hunt ACA Women s Academy Dorai Raj Talent Hunt ACA Women s Academy 22 22

23 Andhra Cricket Association is indebted to former Ranji captains and cricketers who contributed a lot to ACA during their playing days and presently playing the role of coaches in senior, junior and at the grass root levels. K. Chandra Sekhar Rao Legendary ACA Ranji Captain H. Ram Prasad Legendary ACA Ranji Captain Amit Pathak Legendary ACA Ranji Captain Vincent Vinay Kumar Legendary ACA Ranji Captain Hemal Watekar Legendary ACA Ranji Captain Kalyan Krishna Legendary ACA Ranji Cricketer V.V.V. Apparao Former Ranji Cricketer A.S.K. Varma Former ACA Cricketer G. Siva Kumar Raju Former ACA Cricketer T.S. Prasad Former ACA Cricketer D. Ravi Kumar Former ACA Cricketer Vanka Murali Former ACA Cricketer Ch. Sankar Former ACA Cricketer 23 23

24 Realising the need of quality coaches at grassroot level Dr. Gangaraju has employed the following coaches at the district head quarters and its sub centres. They have been working really hard to see that the Andhra Cricketers and the association reach greater heights. Sl.No. NAME OF THE EMPLOYEE 1 Killi Sudarshana Rao 2 M. Govinda Rao 3 G. Srikanth (T) 4 Mohan Sundar Das 5 K. Chandrasekhara Rao 6 G. V. Narasimha Rao 7 D. Ravi Kumar 8 G. Satyanarayana 9 D. Kalyan Krishna 10 B. Chiranjeevi 11 P. Ravi Kumar (T) 12 Y. Mastan Reddy 13 I. Bhaskara Rao 14 VVV. Appa Rao 15 A. Koteswara Rao (T) 16 K. Sudhakar 17 M. Prabhakara Rao 18 T. S. Prasad 19 J. Anand Kumar (T) 20 R. K. Murugan 21 Md. Azmatulla 22 A. Sekhar ( T ) 23 V. Srinivasulu 24 A. Yugandhar Reddy 25 B. Bommanna (T) 26 M. Raja Babu 27 K. Srinivas 28 M. Damayanthi 29 K. Swathi 30 D. R.Srinvivas 31 Ch. Radha Krishna 32 K. Kumaraswamy 33 P. Naga Raju 34 S. Kavitha 35 D. Kalyani 36 A.S.K. Varma Sl.No. NAME OF THE EMPLOYEE 37 M. Satyanarayana 38 G. Durga Prasad 39 J. Harnadha Reddy 40 A. Priyanka 41 Sk. Shair Hussain 42 S. Ramadevi 43 K. Srinivasa Rao 44 Sk. Nagur Vali 45 P. V. Bapi Raju 46 N. Rajendra Prasad 47 S. Ramkumar 48 K. Siva Naga Raju 49 V. Krishna Rao 50 B. Chandrasekhar 51 L. Krishna Kishore 52 T. Siva Nageswara Rao 53 O. Srinivasulu 54 B. Babu Rao 55 Sk. Jilini 56 D. Chandrika 57 M. Chandrasekhar 58 A. Raja Sekhar 59 P. Danunjaya 60 K. Ratna Kumar, VSP 61 G. Sunil Kumar 62 P. Anitha 63 N. Prasad 64 B. Padmavathi 65 B. Premkiran Singh 66 Y. Balaji Rao 67 K. V. Prasanna Kumar 68 Sk. Nazir Ahmad 69 S.Ghulam Khadar Basha 70 P. Sharmasvalli 71 N. Sardar 72 V. Anil Kumar 24 24

25 After taking over the responsibility as secretary of ACA Dr. Gangaraju travelled across the state to have a first-hand feel of cricketing activity and facilities in all the 13 districts. He realised that there was a need for good infrastructure across all districts in order to develop the game. He also realised that BCCI has been granting funds to all the State units to develop the game and infratructure. With this objective he has taken up massive infrastructure projects across 13 districts. Today BCCI has appreciated the efforts of Dr. Gangaraju and his team for utilising the funds for the right cause and purpose. International Stadiums Dr. YSR ACA VDCA International Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam. Proposed ACA International Cricket Stadium, Mangalagiri. Academies ACA Under - 14 Academy, Kadapa. ACA Under - 16 Academy, Mangalagiri. ACA Under - 19 Academy, Vizianaaram. ACA Womens Academy, J.K.C. College, Guntur. ACA developed and adoped cricket grounds ACA Rajareddy Cricket Ground, Kadapa ACA KSRM College Ground, Kadapa ACA KORM College Ground, Kadapa. ACA Bala Sai Baba Ground, Kurnool ACA Venkatagiri Cricket Club Ground, Venkatagiri. ACA VACC Cricket Ground, Venkatagiri. ACA PDCA Cricket Ground, Sharma College, Ongole. ACA SGVR Cricket Ground, Perecherla, Guntur. ACA JKC Cricket Ground, Guntur. ACA Gokaraju Laila Gangaraju Cricket Complex, Mulapadu, Krishna Dist., ACA DNR College Cricket Ground, Bhimavaram. ACA VDCA Cricket Ground, Visakhapatnam. ACA MVGR Cricket Ground, Vizianagaram. ACA Vizzy Cricket Ground, Vizianagaram. ACA Indoor Academy, Mangalagiri

26 ACA-VDCA Stadium project began during the tenure of Sri N. Venkata Rao and the construction was completed in a phased manner. After Dr. Gangaraju took over the reins of ACA in 2009 he made rapid progress in the completion of stadium. During his tenure he was instrumental in installing flood lights, corporate boxes and other ICC requirements. The pitches and outfield were relayed. BCCI and ICC were extremely happy with the facilities and alloted substantial matches from 2009 to When there was severe water crisis in Maharashtra, there was public outcry against cricket matches at both Mumbai and Pune. Within a short-notice of ten days, ACA successfully conducted six IPL matches spreading to 14 days. BCCI, Mumbai and Pune franchisees appreciated the efforts put in by ACA for the smooth conduct of the matches in Visakhapatnam. The glamourous edition of cricket was a visual treat to the Steel City fans. Ariel view of ACA-VDCA Stadium Spectators having fun at ACA-VDCA Stadium Public having fun at ACA-VDCA Stadium Picturesque view from the corporate box at ACA-VDCA Stadium 26 26

27 ACA nursed the idea of constructing an international cricket stadium under the leadership of Dr. Gangaraju at its own land of 24 acres in Mangalagiri in Guntur District. A design was made by Grand Slam architects and after following the tender procedure, IVRCL won the bidding and started the constructing the stadium. Due to initial hiccups the construction got delayed. At present the construction is going on in full swing. In all probabilities it will be completed in 2018 summer and Andhra Cricket Association will be coming up with its first international monument in Amaravati, the new capital of Andhra Pradesh. East view of proposed Mangalagiri Stadium West view of proposed Mangalagiri Stadium Internal view of proposed Mangalagiri Stadium Internal view of proposed Mangalagiri Stadium 27 27

28 Dr. Gangaraju personally visits the stadium every day and monitors the construction of the stadium. As he is having rich knowledge in the field of construction owing to his vast business empire, Andhra Cricket Association is richly benefitted from his experience. Present status of Mangalagiri Stadium Present status of the entrance of the stadium Present status of Western gallery Present status of Eastern gallery Present status of South block Present status of North block 28 28

29 ACA YSRR Stadium, Kadapa. ACA YSRR Stadium, Kadapa. ACA KSRM Stadium, Kadapa ACA KORM Stadium, Kadapa RDT Stadium, Anantapur RDT Ground - II, Anantapur ACA NTR Krida Pranganam, Ground - I, Venkatagiri ACA NTR Krida Pranganam, Ground - II, Venkatagiri 29 29

30 ACA Sarma College, Ongole ACA Narendranath Stadium, Perecherla, Guntur District ACA Academy Ground, Mangalagiri. ACA Women s Academy Ground, JKC College, Guntur. ACA - RVR & JC College of Engineering, Guntur District. ACA- SKBR College Ground, Narasaraopet, Guntur District

31 Ariel view of Gokaraju Laila Gangaraju Cricket Complex, Mulapadu, Krishna District Beautiful view of Devineni Ramana & Praneetha Cricket Ground, Mulapadu, Krishna District Spectacular view of Chukkapalli Pitchaiah Cricket Ground, Mulapadu, Krishna District 31 31

32 VPT Cricket Ground, Vizag ACA - Vizzi Stadium, Vizianagaram ACA - M.V.J.R. Engineering College Ground, Vizianagaram ACA - N.Z. Academy Ground, Vizianagaram ACA - Indoor Stadium, Mangalagiri internal view of ACA - Indoor Stadium, Mangalagiri 32 32

33 ACA WGDCA Ground, Bhogapuram, Eluru. ACA WGDCA Ground, Bhogapuram, Eluru. ACA - DNR Ground - I, Bhimavaram. ACA - DNR Ground - II, Bhimavaram. ACA KDCA Ground - I, Kurnool ACA KDCA Ground - II, Kurnool ACA NDCA Ground - I, Nellore ACA NDCA Ground - II, Nellore 33 33

34 It was a dream-come-true for the Andhra Cricket Association, which, in a pioneering effort, has set up three zonal academies at Chintalavalasa (North Zone), Mangalagiri (Central Zone), and Kadapa (South Zone) in the year With a view to tap the talent in the State and grooming promising cricketers, ACA has set up these academies under purview of its apex cricket development body - Andhra Cricket Academy, headed by Dr. G. Ganga Raju, secretary, Mr. M.S.K.Prasad, Director, Cricket Operations, Zonal heads Mr. M. N. Ravi Kumar, Mr. Sathya Prasad Yachendra, Mr. K. S. Bhaskara Rama Murthy and the Zonal secretaries Mr. N.Prabhakara Rao (North Zone), Mr. V. Uma Maheswar (South Zone) and Mr. Koka Ramesh (Central Zone), in the year Sri J. Narendranath was made the Chairman of ACA Women s Academy. Talented players of all age groups in the jurisdiction of the association are selected and accommodated in the academies. ACA is taking care of their boarding, lodging, education and cricketing activities free of cost.. All the zonal academies have been provided with air conditioned dormitories for players besides well-furnished rooms for the staff and employees. Kitchens and dining rooms were built within the premises of the respective academies. To ensure round-the-year coaching and continuous training for academy players, it has planned to construct indoor stadiums in future

35 Inaugural puja of ACA SZ Academy, Kadapa. on June 12, 2013 Unveiling plaque. Dr. Gangaraju declaring academy open Entering the building after inauguration Sri D. Nageswara Rao Convenor ACA U-14 Academy Picturesque view of ACA SZ Academy on the eve of its inauguration Sri M.V. Sivareddy Chairman ACA U-14 Academy

36 At the inaugural function of CZ Academy, Mangalagiri Padmasri V.V.S. Laxman inaugurating CZ Academy Mr. & Mrs. Gangaraju having a word with the academy palyers Group photo after the launch of CZ Academy Picturesque view of ACA CZ Academy building on the eve of its inauguration Sri Koka Ramesh Convenor ACA U-16 Academy Sri P. Sunil Ratan Kumar Chairman ACA U-16 Academy 36 36

37 Hostels at ACA NZ Academy Dining hall of the academy Players performing yoga Players having a stretching session at academy Picturesque view of ACA NZ Academy on the eve of its inauguration Sri M. Vasudeva Raju Chairman ACA U-19 Academy Sri P.V. Deva Varma Convenor ACA U-19 Academy 37 37

38 Indian captain Mithali Raj inaugurating ACA Women s Academy Beautiful view of the ACA Women s Academy Ground Indian Women Team in action at ACA Women s Academy (Late) Sri J. Narendra Nath Founder ACA Women s Academy ACA Women s Academy cricketers in action Sri J. Murali Mohan Chairman ACA Women s Academy 38 38

39 Great people never shy away from being creative and innovative. Andhra Cricket Association is functioning in the same manner since its inception. The era before Dr. Gangaraju regime witnessed not many innovative initiatives but after Mr. Raju assuming Miss. Maria Fahey his duties as Secretary, a new beginning was made. The first initiative was to set up an exclusive cricket committee and was given the autonomous right to take decisions with regard to development of the Mr. Kaushik Patel game and also to bring in transperancy in selection process. In his six years of tenure he never received a complaint as far as the selection of teams was concerned which spoke ACA Academy and Kent County players volumes about the manner in which the selections were conducted. Mr. Jimmy Adams Being a businessman Dr. Gangaraju knows about the importance of upgradation. Under his supervision ACA teams went abroad for exposure tours and tied up with foreign countries and counties for mutual beneficial programmes. ACA also went 39 39

40 ACA Academy and Kent County players greeting each other Legendery Jimmy Adams interacting with ACA Academy players ahead in hiring Ms. Maria Fahey, who represented 60 ODIs and two World Cups for New Zealand as the head coach of ACA Women s Academy. Mr. Kaushik Patel of New Zealand was hired as the head coach of the ACA Ranji Trophy team. At present ACA has top class coaches in its rank who have qualified in the National Cricket Academy certification courses. Dr. Gangaraju was thinking of having ACA academies in United Kingdom and New Zealand so that ACA cricketers will be acquainted with international standards and players will have a first-hand feel of alien weather conditions. Dr. Gangaraju was also planning to start a Premier League in Andhra in lines of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu Premier Leagues. Unfortunately due to the prevailing situation at BCCI he could not convert the proposals into reality but has assured that his successor will give shape to the proposals. Chinese women team at ACA Women s Academy J.K.C. College, Guntur. Thailand women team at ACA Women s Academy J.K.C. College, Guntur

41 Having come from an aristrocratic family, Dr. Gangaraju has a heart of gold and it yearns to help the poor and needy. After taking over as the Secretary he has consulted his colleagues both present and former cricketers and designed stipend schemes for boys and girls. Those cricketers who represented the State are given a monthly stipend of Rs. 4,000 and those who Women Cricketers who have reaped the benefits of stipend schemes who went on the to play for the country SNEHA DEEPTHI, R. KALPANA, S. MEGHANA, have represented State zonals are paid Rs per month. ACA spends an amount of Rs. 50 lakhs towards the stipend scheme. This scheme has helped needy cricketers to take care of their diet and cricketing gear. This scheme has reduced the burden on parents in supporting their children in concentrating on their passion - cricket. Sl. No Name of the player AMOUNT 1 S. U. Salma Bhanu 48,000 2 B. Anusha 48,000 3 P. Pallavi 48,000 4 N. Anusha 48,000 5 G. Chandra Lekha 48,000 6 K. Anjali Sarvani 48,000 7 G. Saranya 48,000 8 V. Sravani 48,000 9 M. Anusha 48, A. Sireesha 48,000 Sl. No Name of the player AMOUNT 11 A. Sri Lakshmi 48, S. Sai Lakshmi 48, G. Sindhuja 48, E. Padmaja 48, D. Pravallika 48, K. Hamsa 48, G. Saranya 48, P.V. Sudha Rani 48, T. Mallika 48, Ch. Jhansi Lakshmi 48,

42 Sl. No Name of the player AMOUNT 21 R. Kalpana 48, S. Meghana 48, G. Sneha 48, M. Bhavana 48, K. Dhathri 48, P. Kavya 48, S. Manasa 48, L. S. S. Tejaswini 48, Ch. Kavitha 48, P. Srilekha 48, K. Hepsiba (K. Hebsiba) 48, E. Tejaswi 48, K. Devika 48, M. Durga 48, S. Hima Bindu 48, K. Jyothi 48, V. Pushpa Latha 48, V. Ramya Deepika 48, P. Sarayu 48, B. V. V. Niharika 48, G. Sirisha 48, M. Harika Yadav 48, P. Arjun Tendulkar 48, M. Mahendra 48, P. Atchutananda 48, P. K. Sri Chakri 48, G. Chanti 48, M. Sudhanth Naidu 48,000 Sl. No Name of the player AMOUNT 49 K. S. N. Raju 48, U.M.S. Girinadh 48, C. R.Gnaneswar 48, S. Dhruva Kumar Reddy 48, K.Kranthi Kiran 48, T. SivaKumar 48, Y. Pramod 48, D. G. J. Chaitanya 48, S. Yudish 48, S. Muddasar 48, K. Pruthivi Rau 48, T. Vamsi Krishna 48, M. Harisankar Reddy 48, M. A. Praneeth 48, Y. Sandeep 48, U.A.V. Varma 48, S. Ashish 48, P. Subrahmanyam 48, M. Bhargav 48, K. Sunil Sankar 48, P. Khanish 48, M. Vamsi Krishna 48, B. Sai Tarun 48, M. Harsha Vardhan 48, S. Vaibhav 48, Karan Kannan 48, B. Nagamani 24, G. Lakshmi 24,

43 Sl. No Name of the player AMOUNT 77 K. Vinidhya 24, J. Durga Bhavani 24, P. Navya 24, G. Sonali Naidu 24, D.Satyaveni 24, BVSLSRS. Sai Tanmayi 24, N. Lavanya 24, B. Harshitha 24, U. Sandhya 24, S. Manjula 24, V. Sravanthi 24, E. Preethi 24, G. Shirisha 24, K. Vasavi Akhila Pavani 24, P. Dhanalakshmi 24, Sk. Shakeera 24, K. Rajeswari 24, B. Sujana 24, A. Aishwarya Rai 24, K. Rekha 24, Ch. Anusha 24, K. Obulamma 24, M. Divyasree 24, S. Shazadi 24, O. Indumathi 24, K.Srilatha 24, S. Divya 24, K. Sudharani 24,000 Sl. No Name of the player AMOUNT 105 N. Sunitha 24, K. Ribaka 24, K. Akanksha 24, K. Sushma 24, P. Pushpalatha 24, D. Y. Sanjana Priya 24, P. B. Saileha 24, S.D. Muskan 24, B. Rama 24, V. Lavanya 24, R. Sailatha 24, M. Sandhya Rani 24, Swathi Singh 24, G.Polamma 24, K.Padma 24, R. Sandhya Monika 24, V. Saitulya Tejasree 24, B. Yamuna 24, G. Navya Durga 24, G. Satyaveni 24, M. Lavanya 24, T. Umadevi 24, B. Yamini 24, K. Madhuri 24, N.Mounika 24, S. Nagamani 24, N.Roja 24, V. Anusha Rani 24,000 TOTAL RS : 49,44,

44 The year will be considered as a golden season for ACA since its inception in For the untiring efforts put in by the players, coaches, support staff, selectors and the administrators headed by Dr. Gangaraju and his team, all junior and senior age groups in both men and women categories emerged either as winners or runners-up in their respective categories. This is a tribute to the dedication of players and administrators. Dr. Gangaraju recognised the efforts of players, coaches, support staff and rewarded them befittingly. The following are the results that the Andhra teams achieved in the season. 1. Senior Ranji Team : Won the Plate championship and entered Elite group Senior T 20 Team : Won the South Zone Championship and entered all- India quarterfinals 2. Under - 23 : Won the All India Group Championship and entered Elite. 3. Under - 19 : Won the South Zone Championship in one-dayers. Under - 19 : Won the Plate Championship and entered Elite group 4. Under - 16 : Emerged as South Zone runner-up and entered all -India quarterfinals 5. Under - 14 : Won the South Zone Championship 6. Sr. Women s : Won the Plate Championship and entered Elite group Sr. Women s : Emerged runner-up in Plate and entered all-india Super League. 7. U-19 Women s : Winner of all-india Championship. 8. U-16 Women s : Won the South Zone Championship - fifth time in a row

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47 Hardwork never fails. This adage was proved right for the players, coaches and support staff along with administrators headed by Dr. Gangaraju at ACA as the association went on to produce national and international cricketers both in men and women cateogories. The following are the cricketers of national and international repute. V. SNEHA DEEPTHI is the first woman cricketer from Andhra to represent India. She played 3 ODIS for India. R. KALPANA who has been a product of ACA Women s Academy is the second woman cricketer to represent India as wicket keeper batswoman. S. MEGHANA is a prolific run-getter for Andhra in all age groups. She was selected for the National duty and became the third woman cricketer from Andhra to represent India

48 RICKY BHUI with his outstanding domestic performances he earned a place in Indian u-19 team and participated in the u- 19 World Cup held at Dubai and Sharjah in He went on to become captain of India u-19 team that toured Sri Lanka. Later he represented India u-19 team in 2016 World Cup held at Bangladesh. HANUMA VIHARI with his productive domestic performances in all formats in the last three years, he deservingly earned a place in India u-23 team that played in the u-23 Asia Cup held at Bangladesh in He was selected for Indian A team that has toured South Africa in July K.S. BHARATH has been a prolific run-getter for the last three seasons for Andhra Ranji team. His wicket-keeping skills are well apprecitated by the cricketing pundits. He is the first wicket keeper in the country to score at triple hundred in a First Class match against Goa in at Ongole. K.V. SASHIKANTH with his outstanding bowling performance in u-23 domestic season earned him a place in India u-23 team that played in u-23 Asia Cup held at Bangladesh in

49 Men may come and men may go but few will be remembered for their selfless contributions to the organisations and society. ACA will be ever-grateful to Dr. Gangaraju as his contribution to the organisation is enormous and monumental. One of his great traits is recognising and rewarding committed members of the organisation. During his tenure he convinced BCCI in getting ACA members postings in various sub committees. He went on to convince BCCI in fetching manager and match observers posts to the deserving ACA members. Apart from the mentioned posts, Dr. Gangaraju also recognised the inherent talent among members and encouraged them in their respective areas of interest. Sri D.V. Subba Rao : Member - Legal Committee : Member - Constitution Review & Legal Committee : Member - Constitution Review : Member - Constitution Review Dr. G. Ganga Raju : Member - Marketting Committee : Member - IPL Governing Council : Chairman - Finance Committee : Member - IPL Governing Council : Chairman - Programme & Fixctures : Vice-President, BCCI Sri D.V.S.S. Somayajulu : Member - Legal Committee : Member - Legal Committee : Member - Legal Committee Sri P. Appala Raju : Member - Vizzy Trophy Committee : Member - Umpires Committee 49 49

50 Sri V.V.S.R.G.K. Yachendra : Member - Museum Committee : Member - Museum Committee : Member - Museum Committee Sri J. Narendranath : Member - Women Cricket Committee : Member - BCCI Women Academy : Member - Museum Committee Sri G.V.K. Ranga Raju : Member - Museum Committee : Member - Marketing Committee : Member - Marketing Committee Manager Indian Team, Zimbabwe tour Sri Ch. Arun Kumar : Member - New Area Development Committee : Member - IT Sri Moncho Ferrer : Member - Umpires Committee Sri P. Vishnu Kumar Raju : Member - Marketing Committee 50 50

51 Sri M.A. Rahim : Member - TV Production Observer ODI Sri M.V. Siva Reddy : Member - IT : Member -Anti Doping Committee : Manager India A Team Sri M.S.K. Prasad : Member - National Cricket Academy Board : Member - National Cricket Academy Board : Member - Technical Committee : Member - Senior Selection Committee : Chairman - Senior Selection Committee Sri Koka Ramesh : Member - Marketing Committee Manager India U-19 Team, Malaysia Manager India Team, Zimbabwe Sri N. Prabhakara Rao : Member - Museum Committee : Member - Museum Committee Sri V. Umamaheswar : Observer India vs. SL ODI : Member - BCCI Women s Academy 51 51

52 Sri J. Murali Mohan : Member Women Cricket Committee Sri V. Satya Prasad : Manager - Indian Cricket Team Bangladesh tour Sri Ch. Pratap : Manager CL T20 Sri D. Nageswara Raju Member - Data Mgt. Committee BCCI Observer Champions Trophy Observer CL T20 Sri P. Sunil Ratan Kumar 2016 Observer India vs NZ ODI at Dharmasala Sri N. Mohan Das : Member - Mkt. Committee :Observer IPL South Africa :Member-Museum Committee Sri Ashwaq Raheem Khan : Member Junior Cricket Committee Sri Goparaju Srinivas : Observer IPL held at Dubai Sri B. Bapuji : Observer India vs Srilanka ODI at Ranchi 52 52

53 In a landmark event in the history of Andhra Cricket Association, Dr. Gangaraju and his team organised a great gala show celebrating it s diamond Jubilee year at Visakhapatnam in a beffiting manner in As mark of regard to all those cricketers who represented ACA since 1953, they were invited and felicitated. ACA also recognised those cricketers who were not ACA veteran cricketer receiving one-time benefit cheque from the dignitaries getting the benefits of Board of Control for Cricket In India (BCCI) pension scheme and honoured them with a one-time benefit worth of Rs. 3 crores. The joy had no limits when the emotionally-charged veteran cricketers expressed their gratitude to Dr. Gangaraju with moist eyes. BCCI top brass and former legendary cricketers of the country - Anil Kumble, Javagal Srinath and V.V.S. Laxman - were the guests of honour. Sri N. Srinivasan receiving a sword from Dr. Gangaraju and other dignitaries on the dais as a token of love for being elevated to the post of chairman of ICC They graced the occasion and expressed their love, warmth and respect for Gangaraju

54 ADDRESS BY THE DIGNITARIES Sri D.V. Subba Rao, Hon. President ACA Sri N. Srinivasan, Hon. President BCCI Dr. G. Gangaraju, Hon. Secretary, ACA Sri V.V.S. Laxman, Legendary Former Indian Cricketer Sri Javagal Srinath, Legendary Former Indian Cricketer Sri Anil Kumble, Legendary Former Indian Cricketer Sri N.Shivlal Yadav, Vice President, BCCI Sri Sanjay Patel, Hon. Secretary, BCCI 54 54

55 ADDRESS BY THE DIGNITARIES Sri Ghanta Srinivas, Hon. Min. HRD, Govt. of A.P. Sri Atcham Naidu, Minister of Sports, Govt. of A.P. Sri D.V.S.S. Somayajulu, Vice President ACA Sri Ch. Arun Kumar, Jt. Secretary, ACA Sri N. Mohandas, Vice President, ACA Sri P. Vishnu Kumar Raju, President, VDCA Sri M.S.K. Prasad, Director (CO) ACA Mis. Maria Fahey, Head Coach, ACA Women s Academy 55 55

56 ACA PRESENTS MEMENTOS TO THE DIGNITARIES Sri. N. Srinivasan lighting the lamp ACA felicitates N. Srinivasan ACA presents memento to N. Srinivasan ACA presents memento to N. Shivlal Yadav ACA presents memento to Javagal Srinath ACA presents memento to V.V.S. Laxman ACA presents memento to Sanjay Patel ACA presents memento to Anil Kumble 56 56

57 DIGNITARIES PRESENT MEMENTOS TO THE FORMER AND PRESENT CAPTAINS OF ANDHRA RANJI TROPHY TEAMS Chief Guests present memento to Sri Gopanna Chief Guests present memento to Sri B. Mahendra Kumar Chief Guests present memento to K. Chandhrasekhar Rao Chief Guests present memento to B. Ram Prasad Chief Guests present memento Sri M.N. Ravi Kumar Chief Guests present memento to K. Bhaskar Ramamurthy Chief Guests present memento to K.S.V.D. Kamaraju Chief Guests present memento to V. Vijaya Saradhi 57 57

58 DIGNITARIES PRESENT MEMENTOS TO THE FORMER AND PRESENT CAPTAINS OF ANDHRA RANJI TROPHY TEAMS ACA presents memento to Vincent Vinay Kumar ACA presents memento to Amit Pathak ACA presents memento to M.S.K. Prasad ACA presents memento to Y. Venugopala Rao ACA presents memento to Y. Gnaneswara Rao ACA presents memento to B. Sumanth ACA presents memento Sri A.G. Pradeep Chief Guests present memento Sri D.B. Prashanth 58 58

59 DIGNITARIES PRESENT MEMENTOS TO ACA OFFICE BEARERS AND MEMBERS Sri D.V. Subba Rao, Hon. President Dr. G. Ganga Raju, Hon. Secretary Sri M.A. Raheem, Treasurer Sri Ch. Arun Kumar, Joint. Secretary Sri D.V.S. Somayajulu, Vice President Sri N. Mohan Das, Vice President Sri Subba Raju, Vice President Sri Trinadh Raju, Vice President 59 59

60 DIGNITARIES PRESENT MEMENTOS TO ACA OFFICE BEARERS AND MEMBERS Sri G.V.K. Rangaraju, Vice President Sri G.J.J. Raju, Vice President Sri V. Uma Maheshwar, Secretary, South Zone Sri N. Prabhakar Rao, Secretary, North Zone Sri Koka Ramesh, Secretary, Central Zone Sri A. Yella Rao Secretary, KDCA Sri P. Deva Varma, Secretary, VZM Club Sri B. Bapuji, Secretary, Welcome Club 60 60

61 DIGNITARIES PRESENT MEMENTOS TO ACA OFFICE BEARERS AND MEMBERS Sri Devendar Goud, Secretary, Kurnool. Sri D. Nageswara Raju, Secretary, Kadapa. Sri Moncho Ferrer, President, Anantapur Sri Prasanna, Secretary, Anantapur Sri V. Rajesh, GCC Sri Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy, Chairman, CDCA, Adhoc Comm. Sri Anil Kumar, Convenor, CDCA, Adhoc Comm. Sri Gopala Krishna, Secretary, GCC 61 61

62 DIGNITARIES PRESENT MEMENTOS TO THE COACHES OF ACA Sri J. Krishna Rao Sri C.D. Thomson Sri Maria Fahey Sri Srinivas Reddy Sri N. Nirmal Kumar Sri Venkat Ramesh Sri Imtiaz Ahmed Sri Rama Murthy 62 62

63 DIGNITARIES PRESENT MEMENTOS TO THE UMPIRES AND STAFF OF ACA Sri G.A. Pratap Kumar, Former International Umpire Sri S. Rama Krishna, Umpire, First Class Cricket Sri P. Bhanuprakash, Umpire, First Class Cricket Sri Ch. Ravikanth Reddy, Umpire, First Class Cricket Sri Ramesh, Umpire, First Class Cricket Sri C.R. Mohan, Media Manager, ACA Sri G. Phani, Admin Manager ACA Sri Y. Satyanarayana, Chief Accountant, ACA 63 63

64 The success of ACA in hosting many domestic and International matches largely goes to organising committee formed by Dr. Gangaraju and his team. The organising Ajeya Kallam, IAS committee was headed by Sri Ajeya Kalam, Krishna Babu, Pravin Kumar all IAS officers of repute. They took time from their hectic professional life in lending their helping hand for the M.T. Krishna Babu, IAS smooth conduct of the matches. Credit should also be given to the members and office bearers of ACA who stayed in Visakhapatnam on voluntary basis for a month before the Praveen Kumar, IAS ODI organising Committee at a press meet ODI organising Committee inspecting the facilities 64 64

65 Committed ACA media and volunteers c ommittee Hardworking ACA curators and groundsmen with Dr. Gangaraju mega event to carry out their responsibilities. ACA is indebted to the police department and State Government departments for their support in making matches a grand success. The role of media and volunteers is also laudable and the curators and groundsmen deserve a huge pat on their backs. Above all ACA respects the peaceful and sportive crowd of Vizag who came in large numbers and enjoyed the game in true spirit. BCCI always looks up to ACA to organise games of any magnitude and Dr. Gangaraju and his team obliges BCCI with pride and honour

66 India vs Aus ODI Australia v India at Visakhapatnam on Oct 20, 2010 India won by 5 wickets (with 7 balls remaining) India vs WI ODI India won by 5 wickets and V. Kohli slams yet another century in Vizag 66 66

67 India vs Nz T20. The match was abandoned due to rain. Yuvi waving the crowd. India vs Wi ODI India won the match by 2 wickets and V. Kohli gets yet another century India vs Sri Lanka : T Sri Lanka were allout for 82 and India won the game in 13.4 for the loss of 1 wicket India vs Sri Lanka : T Sri Lanka were allout for 82 and India won the game in 13.4 for the loss of 1 wicket India vs NZ ODI In an attempt to promote gender equality, the Indian cricket team on Saturday sported jerseys with their mothers names during the fifth and final ODI against New Zealand in Visakhapatnam Victorious Indian team celebrates a brilliant Five wicket haul by Amit Mishra against the New Zelanders. India won with margin of 190 runs.

68 Andhra Cricket Association hosted its first- ever historical Test match Dr. Y.S.R. ACA- VDCA Stadium, Visakhapatnam. The efforts put in by Dr. Gangaraju, late D.V. Subba Rao along with other members resulted in hosting the historical Test match on November 17, Vizag, which is known as a sentimental venue for host team lived upto the omen as the Indian V. Kohli scores brilliant 167 and 81 in the match and deservingly got MOM Team won Test match on the fifth day of the match. Former legendary cricketers sitting in the commentary box lauded the pitch and the outfield. Former England skippers Nasser Hussian and Mike Atherton compared the outfield with Mecca of world cricket - The Lords. C. Pujara compiled a patient 119 in the first innings There is no limit for joy for the cricket lovers of Visakhapatnam and above all to the organising committee members. The victory of Indian team is a true tribute to ACA members and to the hardworking curators, ground staff and other stakeholders. England captain bowled by a delivery by Md. Shami R. Aswin took 5 for 67 in first and 3 for 52 in second innings Captain Kohli gives ACA a sweet victory in its maiden Test match 68 68

69 Sunrises vs Rajasthan Royals : Rajasthan Royals won the match in a thrilling encounter in the last ball of the match. Ajinkya Rahane was declared player of match for his 62 runs of 56 balls James Faulkner in action who won the game for RR in last ball Sunrises vs Delhi Daredevils DD won the match. J.P. Duminy was declared player of match for his brilliant all round performance of 54 runs in 41 balls and analysis. Spectacular effort by Mayank Agarwal Sunrisers vs KKR Sunrisers won the match. David Warner was declared player of match for his brilliant 91 runs of 55 balls Mumbai Indians vs Sunrisers : Sunrisers won the match with a huge margin. Sunrisers scored 178 and while chasing Mumbai Indians could manage only 85 runs

70 RPS vs Sunrisers : RPS won the match. Adam Zampa bowls second best spell in IPL history with an analysis of Adam Zampa bowls a splendid spell Mi vs Kings XI Punjab Kings XI Punjab won the match. MP Stoinis bowls well with an analysis of Jubliant MP Stoinis MI vs DD : MI won the match. Krunal Pandya bats brilliantly and scores 86 of 37 balls with seven boundaries and six sixers Krunal Pandya entertains Vizag crowd RPS vs DD : Rising Pune Supergiants won by 19 runs (D/ L method). A.B. Dinda was declared player of the match for bowling analysis of AB Dinda bowls a brilliant spell M.S. Dhoni slams 4 sixers in the last over RPS. vs K XI Punjab : Rising Pune Supergiants won a thrilling game in the last ball. MSD smacked four sixers in the last over of Axar Patel and won the game for RPS. MSD s knock was a visual treat for Vizag cricket fans. His love affair with Vizag continues

71 Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu inaugurated Dr. Gokaraju Laila Gangaraju Cricket Complex that has picturesque twin grounds in Mulapadu in Krishna District on November 9, The North ground is named as Devineni Venkataramana and Praneetha Cricket Ground while the south ground is named as Chukkapalli Pitchaiah Cricket Ground. Mr. Naidu lauded the efforts of the members of ACA headed by Gangaraju for coming up with an outstanding infrastructure at a sleepy village - Mulapadu. He also inaugurated India vs. West Indies women s ODI and T20 series and spent substantial amount of time interacting with players of both India and West Indies teams

72 Andhra Cricket Association has hosted its first- ever International match between India and West Indies women s teams in one of the picturesque ground in the world at Mulapadu. India played three ODIs and won all of them comfortably. Harmanpreet Kaur and Veda Krishnamurthy were the main performers with Skippers of Ind & WI Mithaliraj and S.Taylor at the launch of the ODI Series the bat and Jhulan Goswami, Shikha Pandey and Ekta Bisht were the top performers in the bowling department. Though the ground was far away from the city, ACA co-ordinators Koka Ramesh, Adminisrative Manager Durga Prasad and their team made an allout effort Harmanpreet Kaur was on song through out the ODI series with bat to bring in crowds in huge numbers. Students from women s colleges came in large numbers and relished India s whitewash against T20 world champions West Indies. Jhulan Goswami adds few more wickets to her kitty in ODI s ACA Treasurer Sri M.A. Rahim,IRS, handsover trophy to Indian Skipper Mithaliraj The victorious Indian team in ODI series 72 72

73 Andhra Cricket Association also hosted three T-20 matches between India and West Indies women s teams at the same venue - Dr. Gokaraju Laila Gangaraju Cricket complex, Mulapadu. Reigning World T20 champions West Indies won all three matches and showed their supremacy in the shortest format. Skippers Harmanpreet and Stafanie Taylor at the toss. The happiest moment for ACA during the series was when its own cricketer S. Meghana made her international debut. The coaches and skippers of both teams lauded the efforts put in by the officials of ACA in organising the event in a professional manner. The victorious West Indies celebrating the T20 Series victory S. Meghana of Andhra receiving her Indian cap They appreciated the facilities extended to the both teams. BCCI officials Amitab Choudhary (Joint Secretary ), Rahul Johri (CEO, BCCI ) and M.V. Sridhar (General Manager, Game Development, BCCI) visited the venue and appreciated ACA for successfully conducting the ODI and T-20 series. ACA officials Sri Koka Ramesh presenting a memento to Sri M.V. Sridhar ACA Vice President Sri Trinadh Raju presenting a memento to Sri Rahul Johri 73 73

74 Ricky Bhui in action against South Africa Ricky Bhui and Sarfraz appreciating each other Unmukth Chand in action Baba Aparajit in action Australian skipper in full flow Shreyas Iyer acknowledges the crowd 74 74

75 Unveiling of pylon for the historic maiden Test match at Visakhaptanam by Hon. Chief Minister Sri Nara Chandrababu Naidu Dr. Gangaraju and Sri D.V. Subbarao made a valiant effort in several executive committee and AGMs of BCCI in convincing officials to accord the Test status to ACA-VDCA Stadium at Visakhapatnam. As patience always pays, the then president of BCCI Sri N. Srinivasan agreed to send a delegation to the stadium to inspect the facilities. A delegation under the chairmanship of Sri G.R. Viswanath visited the stadium in 2014 and requested ACA to make certain changes as per the requirements of ICC. ACA religiously followed the suggestions of the delegation and upgraded the stadium with the required changes and requested the board for a fresh inspection. BCCI sent another delegation under the chairmanship of Sri Ranjith Biswal and Sri M.V. Sridhar who expressed their satisfaction over the upgradation and submitted a report to BCCI. Subsequently BCCI in its AGM under the presidentship of Anurag Thakur accorded Test status to Dr YSR ACA -VDCA Stadium. On November 17, 2016, ACA hosted its first-ever historical Test match at Dr. Y.S.R. ACA- VDCA Stadium. Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Nara Chandrababu Naidu inaugurated the event by unveiling the plaque. He felicitated the legendary cricketers of India and England as a mark of respect for their services rendered by them for their respective countries. In a nutshell, the never-give-up attitude of Gangaraju and the commitment of his trusted members were instrumental in attaining the Test status to ACA

76 Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu received by Hon. President D.V.S.S. Somayajulu Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu and Dr. Gangaraju acknowledging the crowd CM Nara Chandrababu Naidu addressing the crowd prior to the historic Test match ACA officials felicitate England coach ACA officials Indian coach Kumble ACA officials felicitate Indian Selection Committee Chairman M.S.K. Prasad CM N. Chandrababu Naidu felicitates legendery Sunil Gavaskar CM N. Chandrababu Naidu felicitates legendery Ravi Shastri 76 76

77 Sri N. Chandrababu Naidu felicitates legendery V.V.S. Laxman Sri N. Chandrababu Naidu felicitates legendery former England Captain Naseer Hussain Sri N. Chandrababu Naidu felicitates L. Sivaramakrishnan Sri N. Chandrababu Naidu felicitates Sanjay Manjrekar Sri N. Chandrababu Naidu felicitates Anil Kumble International legends at Visakhapatnam Sri N. Chandrababu Naidu with the legendary cricketers Indian captain Virat Kohli receives Man of the Match award in the historical Test match 77 77

78 Umpiring, Scoring and Video Analysis - once important part of the Game. Emergence of Dr. Ganga Raju as Secretary of ACA, paved way for the prominence of umpires, scorers and video analysts along with development of the game and players. During his tenure, the training and development of umpires, scorers and video analysts were given equal importance along players under the guidance of M.S.K. Prasad. He brought them into the main stream by encouraging candidates from districts and took steps to improve their performance at ACA and BCCI- Former BCCI umpire S. Rama Krishna educating the upcoming umpires level assignments. During Dr. Gangaraju s tenure ACA organized many workshops conducted by BCCI for umpires, scorers and video analysts and conducted examinations to them by inviting professionals. The official book on umpiring - MCC Laws of Cricket - was translated by S. Ramakrishna as per the advice of Dr. Gangaraju and MSK. BCCI Umpires Bhanu Prakash, Ramesh Ravikanth Reddy and S. Rama Krishna at umpires refresher course A scorers panel was incorporated in 2014 by inviting Mr. Jayapaul, a scorer educator from BCCI. Umpires conclave held at Vizag 78 78

79 Umpiring, Scoring and Video Analysis - once important part of the Game. Umpires, scorers and video analysts were encouraged to get qualified in the BCCI examinations and ACA is having 40 umpires on ACA panel out of which four on BCCI panel and 17 are Level-1 umpires accredited by BCCI. There are 20 scorers out of which five were promoted to BCCI panel. There are 9 video analysts on BCCI Panel. Level - A umpires refresher course held at Mangalagiri Umpires on BCCI Panel- 1. Sri P. Bhanuprakash, Tirupati 2. Sri M. Ramesh Kumar, Visakhapatnam 3. Sri Ch. Ravikanth Reddy, Visakhapatnam and 4. Sri K.Prabhakara Rao, Guntur. Video analyst refresher course conducted by BCCI at Vijayawada To encourage players to take up umpiring as a profession, ACA has conducted separate examination for retired players and at present ACA is having ex-ranji cricketers qualified on BCCI Level-1 panel. As of now ACA is having 40 umpires on ACA panel out of which 17 are qualified BCCI Level-1 umpires. BCCI online scorers workshop held at Vizag 79 79

80 K. Naga Mallaiah Curator ACA VDCA Stadium A. Yella Rao BCCI certified curator Andhra Cricket Association has been hailed as Green Association purely for the quality of playfields developed across 13 districts of Andhra Pradesh. The credit should go to the hardworking and dedicated curators and ground staff who are well-trained in every aspect of the development of pitches and playfields. ACA conducts workshops periodically by calling experts from BCCI curators panel like Daljeeth Singh and P.R. Viswanath who come and updated ACA curators and groundsmen on the latest research and trends happening in the process of improving the quality of pitches and outfields. BCCI curators panel always referred ACA as a benchmark for other units to emulate. ACA also trains curators and groundsmen in handling machinery by calling experts from the manufacturers. ACA proudly boosts that it has in its ranks highly skilled curators and groundsmen who are not only experts in pitches and outfields but can also operate and repair machines they work with.. Koka Ramesh BCCI certified curator N. Krishna Rao Curator ACA Women s Academy T. Balaraju Curator YSRR Stadium, Kadapa K. Madhu Curator RDT Stadium, Anantapur C. Adi Babu Curator ACA NZ Academy, VZM

81 During the tenure of Dr. Gangaraju, four top cricketers namely K.S. Shahabuddin, Hemal Watekar, D. Kalyan Krishna and L.N. Prasad Reddy called it a day. They served ACA with distinction for many years and played a stellar role in several victories. Recognising their contributoins their respective districts felicitated them in a befitting manner. Dr. Gangaraju also gave them an offer to offer their services to ACA in their areas of interest. Responding to the felicitation they expressed their gratitude to their district associations and ACA in identifying, nurturing and moulding their careers. They expressed their gratitude to all the officials, coaches and their family members for standing by them during their cricketing careers. ACA wished them happy and healthy life post retirement from First Class cricket. L.N. Prasad Prasad Reddy, a wicket keeper opening batsman, has served ACA right from junior age groups to seniors with merit. He holds the record of scoring century in each innings in first class cricket against Uttar Pradesh at Anantapur. He also represented South Zone in Deodhar Trophy. He retired on his own terms and Ananatpur District Cricket Association and ACA felicitated him at RDT Sports Centre. He represented in 53 First Class matches and scored 3001 runs

82 D. Kalyan Krishna A promising fast bower who clocked above 140 Kmph had a fair amount of success in his career, representing Andhra. He represented South Zone in Duleep and Deodhar Trophy. He represented Deccan Chargers in IPL. An unfortunate injury cut short his otherwise KDCA officials felicitating Kalyan Krishna Hemal Watekar An opening batsman and an off spinner of high quality has represented Andhra for more than a decade. He also represented South Zone in Duleep and Deodhar Trophy and performed extremely well. Watekar represented Gujarat for a couple of seasons before he came back to Andhra. President Sri D.V. Subba Rao and Secretary Dr. Gangaraju presenting a bouquet to Kalyan Krishna flourishing career. He represented in 51 First Class matches and picked 154 wickets. ACA felicitated him on February 6, 2014 at its Executive Committee meeting in a befitting manner. President Sri D.V.S.S. Somayajulu and Secretary Dr. Gangaraju garlanding Hemal Watekar Hon. Secretary Dr. Gangaraju presenting a memento to Hemal Watekar He holds the record for scoring century in each innings against Punjab in Patiala. He was one of the important players in the team that won South Zone Championship in the year Watekar represented in 73 First Class games and score 2872 runs and got 95 wickets. He was felicitated by the members of ACA in the general body meeting on June 12,

83 KS SHAHABUDDIN Shahabuddin served ACA for more than a decade with his outstanding performances both in batting and bowling departments. He is regarded as one of the finest allrounders ever played for Andhra. Shahabuddin represented South Zone in Duleep and Deodhar Trophy. He represented IPL for Mumbai Indians. ACA Vice President Sri M.V. Siva Reddy presenting a memento on behalf of ACA to Shahabuddin ADCA President Moncho Ferrer having lighter moments with Shahabuddin and M.S.K. Prasad Shahabuddin has orchestrated many victories for Andhra as an all-rounder. He was one of the important players in the team that won South Zone Championship in Shahabuddin represented 80 First Class games and scored 2567 runs and claimed 248 wickets. On April, 29, 2016 Anantapur District Cricket Association and Andhra Cricket Association felicitated Shabuddin on his retirement at a well- organised function at RDT sports centre at Anantapur. ADCA officials felicitating Shahabuddin 83 83

84 Dr. Gangaraju always believed that cricket is a game that is meant not only for its prosperity but also for the entire sports fraternity. Hence he felt that cricket should act as a big brother and support talented sportspersons in the other segments enabling them to bring laurels to the State and the country. With this objective in mind he convinced the EC and AGM of ACA to allocate Rs. 30 lakhs per annum to the deserving sportsmen of the State other than cricket. ACA sponsors games like archery, chess, tennis, athletics, weightlifiting. Some of the beneficiaries of the schemes are: (1) Jyothi Surekha - Asian Bronze Medalist in Archery, (2) Chaitanya - Shooting (3) Grandmaster M. R. Lalith Babu - Chess (4) Sai Revathi - Powerlifiting (5) A. P. Badminton Association (6) A.P. Athletic Association (7) Cricket Association for Physically Handicapped (8) Cricket Association for blind (9) Acharya Nagarjuna University Saketh Maineni receiving a cheque from Dr. Gangaraju ACA-sponsored Sai Revathi with trophies in power lifting Dr. Gangaraju congratulates ACA-sponsored Lalith Babu on becoming chess Grandmaster ACA present a cheque to A.P. Association Physically Challenged Dr. Gangaraju congratulates ACA sponsored Jyothi Surekha on winning bronze medal in archery at Asian Games Table tennis player Sailu Noor Basha receiving a cheque from Dr. Gangaraju ACA Officials presenting cheque to be A.P. Badminton Association ACA sponsors badminton tournament Dr. Gangaraju presenting a cheque to Karthik, a chess Player 84

85 Mr. B. Ram Prasad Mr. Mehar Baba Mr. A.G. Pradeep Mr. D. Kalyan Krishna Dr. Gangaraju and his team recognised the services rendered by former cricketers and administrators. Some of the veteran cricketers and administrators were in need of financial help for medical causes. ACA lead by leader Gangaraju designed a system in which all the needy people were taken care of either by paying the bills directly or by paying monthly allowance for their medical needs. Legendary former cricketers like B. Ram Prasad, Mehar Baba, H. Ramprasad, D. Kalyan Krishna and current cricketers like A.G. Pradeep, G. Saranya were benefitted by this scheme. ACA is also taking care of medical expences of former and present administrators who rendered selfless service to the State. N. Mohan Das, D. Nageswara Raju, N. Prabhakar Rao, Prabhakar Reddy, Rajgopal Yachendra, Niranjan, Gopal Krishna and many others were benefitted by this magnanimous gesutre of ACA. Mr. D. Nageswara Raju Mr. N. Mohan Das Mr. P. Appala Raju Mr. N. Prabhakar Rao 85 85

86 Board of Control for Cricket in India is a body which is headed by the most powerful and successful personalities from different walks of life. Honorable members and office bearers of BCCI reach the stage after rendering years of selfless service to Dr. Gangaraju having a conversation with Shashank Manohar Dr. Gangaraju with Shashank Manohar, Anurag Thakur and Rajiv Shukla He was made the Chairman of the Finance Committee of world s richest cricket body (BCCI ) in As the Chairman of the Finance Committee he worked as an exofficio of all the sub committees of BCCI. He was made the member of Governing Council of IPL in the year their respective state associations. BCCI top brass has recognised the development of game and infrastructure in ACA and deservingly elevated Dr. Gangaraju to various coveted posts in BCCI. Dr. Gangaraju with Shashank Manohar 86 86

87 He was made the Chairman of prestigious Programmes and Fixtures Committees of BCCI. In the 86th AGM of BCCI, Dr. Gangaraju was elevated to the coveted post of Vice President of BCCI. A visionary and a thorough professional he was deservingly elevated to such an important post of the the most powerful 86th AGM of BCCI where Dr. Gangaraju was unanimously elected as Vice President of BCCI cricket body in the world. ACA feels it as an honour that its leader was duly recognised by BCCI. BCCI President Sashank Manohar, Hon. Secretary Anurag Thakur and Vice President Dr. Gangaraju Owing to Supreme Court Order that has put up age cap of 70 years restriction for BCCI office bearers, Dr. Gangaraju resigned to the post of Vice President with immediate effect respecting the court order. Dr. Gangaraju with the other office bearers of BCCI 87 87

88 Dr. Gokaraju Gangaraju, after making mark in the fields of social service, philanthropy. sports, arts, cultural, religious activities, education and business, made his foray into politics in Though not a lover of politics, the septuagenarian s services to the society was duly recognised by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and honoured him by giving the Narasapuram Parliament constituency ticket. Mr. Raju won the hearts of the voters of Narasapuram and romped home with a majority of around 85,000 votes. Like a true leader, Gangaraju is forging ahead taking all necessary steps for the development of his constituency. Dr. Gangaraju has been the chief patron of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and Vishwa Hindu Parishad in the coastal region for a couple decades and was also the National Vice President of VHP for more than two decades. He plays a key role in running Sanskrit school for tribals in the Jeelugumilli mandal in the agency in West Godavari a P.M. Modi congratulates Dr. Gangaraju prodigy and ACA sponsored Jyothi Surekha for receiving Arjunaward. pet project of RSS-VHP. He also supports the single teacher schools (Eka Vidyalaya) in 100 schools in slum and tribal areas in Andhra Pradesh for more than two decades. As a senior leader of BJP in Andhra Pradesh, he is making relentless efforts for the development his party, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the new State of AP