Ranchi: The Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) is poised for a fresh start, as the Ajay Nath Shahdev-led group achieved a clean sweep in the fiercely contested elections, with results nearly finalized by Sunday evening.
Ajay Nath Shahdev secured the post of president with an impressive 421 votes, leaving his closest rival from the SK Behera group far behind. Celebrations erupted across Ranchi as news of his victory spread, with supporters lighting fireworks and distributing sweets in jubilation.
Sanjay Pandey was elected vice president with 381 votes, while former international cricketer Saurabh Tiwary emerged as the new secretary, securing a resounding 438 votes. Amitabh Ghosh clinched the treasurer’s post with 402 votes.
The Shahdev group’s decisive victory marks a significant shift in JSCA’s leadership, overcoming the strong challenge posed by the SK Behera faction, which enjoyed support from Jharkhand Police IG Akhilesh Jha and Ranjit Singh.
Of the nearly 700 eligible voters, around 60 percent backed Shahdev’s team, signaling a strong mandate for change and renewed leadership. The inclusion of well-known cricketers such as Saurabh Tiwary and experienced spinner Shahbaz Nadeem in key roles has raised hopes among fans and players alike. Many are optimistic that the new administration will focus on player welfare and promote a culture of sportsmanship.
Though the official announcement is awaited, the winds of change are already sweeping through Jharkhand cricket, promising an exciting and transformative chapter for the state’s cricketing future.