Celebrity T20: Chandy XI vs Mohanlal XI (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/celebrity-t20--chandy-xi-vs-mohanlal-xi/211572-60-116.html)
Chief Minister Oommen Chandy’s ‘Kerala Legends’ will take on Superstar Mohanlal’s ‘Kerala Strikers’ in the cricket match to be played on December 27 at Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, Kaloor, as part of the Grand Kerala Shopping festival.
Kerala Legends will consist of ministers, opposition members and media persons. Leading actors from South India will form Kerala Strikers. It has been decided to organise the friendly match under the name Grand Kerala T-20 Celebrity Cricket Hangama 2011. The match is being organised by the Kerala Cricket Association and AMMA.

Celebrity T20: Chandy XI vs Mohanlal XI (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/celebrity-t20--chandy-xi-vs-mohanlal-xi/211572-60-116.html)

Claps:applause:

I'm Game: Mohanlal (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/news-interviews/Im-Game-Mohanlal/articleshow/11105832.cms)
Mohanlal is enjoying his role as captain of Kerala Strikers Kochi, the Mollywood cricket team, and says playing a game of cricket is like acting in a movie

Yes, he eats, sleeps and breathes movies, but it couldn't become more evident that when Mohanlal was asked about his experience playing captain for the celebrity cricket league (CCL) Kerala Strikers Kochi. Playing a game of cricket is like acting in a movie according to the actor. "Your lifespan as an actor lies in the crucial moments between 'action' and 'cut'; likewise your performance as a sportsman lies between the point you enter the field till you get out.Each moment requires your full attention and commitment; each ball and each hit, especially in a 20-20 match." For the same reason he feels that there are good performances more than good players. "Of course I'm in awe of Sachin Tendulkar but ultimately it depends on who performs well in each game."

The actor is clearly enjoying his role as captain of the Mollywood team for whom the game is a huge celebration, he feels. "Because we are playing with and against people of our fraternity." At the same time, his "boys" as he calls his team, are very committed and are getting better by the day, he says. ""Things are no longer a joke and we are all getting more serious day by day. It's now become a matter of pride to win the cup.We are doing our best but all the teams have good players, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu etc." The actor himself has earned the praise for his bowling and fielding during the practice sessions but he brushes it off saying he is just doing his best. "In school and college I used to play cricket, like any other boy, but at an age when I could have given it serious thought, I was already into films."

The team is busy these days with the practice sessions which can get quite exhausting at times. "As actors, we are used to long hours in the sun but while filming you can take breaks every now and then. Here that's not possible and we are slowly getting acclimatised to that."

This is the second season of CCL but it's going to be the first experience on the pitch for Kerala Strikers Kochi which has players like Indrajith, Prithviraj, Kunchako Boban and Asif Ali. "They are doing well and I'm confident we will come out with good results."

Ball rolls for football season in Kochi

The ball has started rolling for a season of football at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium here. The national football league, now known as the I-League, is set to make a return to Kochi on December 23. An international event, involving the junior (under-19) teams of some of the world’s most famous football clubs, is also in the offing early next year.

Although Chirag United Kerala, formerly Viva Kerala, had submitted to the All-India Football Federation that the JN Stadium would be their home ground when they played in the I-League for the first time in 2007, they have never been able to play at the venue.

It was closed for renovation in 2007 and post-renovation, it was taken on lease by the Kerala Cricket Association for the IPL matches last season.

Even this year, they have had to wait till the sixth home match as the stadium was hosting Ranji Trophy matches during the period. Having started their home season off at Thiruvananthapuram, Chirag are scheduled to play 8 matches here, extending till April, 2012.

The proposed international tournament for academy teams from the likes of F C Barcelona, A C Milan, Manchester United, Arsenal, Inter Milan, Juventus, Bayern Munich and Glasgow Celtic is being pitched for a February-March window in 2012.With Chirag slated to play their first ever I-League match at their ‘home ground’ on December 23 against Kolkata giants Kingfisher East Bengal, the Kerala Football Association officials got down to work at the venue on Thursday.

“We have found the right alignments for the football field and the marking will begin on Friday. Within two days, the goal posts will also be erected,” AIFF Referees' Assessor S Ramachandran, in charge of ground specifications, told City Express..

Ramachandran, a member of the local organising committee, said that the goal posts will be portable.“We will place one-and-a-half metre-deep flanges as the base of the posts. The posts will be bolted to the top portion of the flanges. If there is a need to host cricket matches, the posts can be removed and the holes close off. The base will remain underground and can be used again when football matches return,” said Ramachandran.

The last national league game was played way back in 2002 when the now defunct F C Kochin slipped out of the scene with a 0-5 humiliation against Kolkata club Tollygunge Agragami.

The last full international match at the venue was the India-Oman Pre-Olympic qualifier in 2004 while an exhibition match featuring Brazilian club Sao Paulo was held in 2007.http://expressbuzz.com/cities/kochi/ball-rolls-for-football-season-in-kochi/343833.html

Indoor Stadium coming @ Piravam
Being built by Kerala Sports Council.
To cost Rs 22 lakh.
As part of National Games 2012.

Mathrubhumi (http://www.mathrubhumi.com/ernakulam/news/1342198-local_news-ernakulam.html)

Celebrity T20: Chandy XI vs Mohanlal XI (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/celebrity-t20--chandy-xi-vs-mohanlal-xi/211572-60-116.html)

Cricket Hungama on December 27

Grand Kerala T 20-Celebrity Cricket Hungama 2011 will be held in the Kaloor International Stadium on December 27 as part of the ongoing fifth season of the Grand Kerala Shopping Festival (GKSF).

Kerala Strikers led by actor Mohanlal will clash with the Kerala Legends led by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy at the friendly match that will commence at 7.30 p.m. Leading actors from south India are in the team led by Mohanlal while Ministers, Opposition leaders, businessmen, mediapersons, artists, and cultural personalities will play for the Kerala Legends.

An hour-long inaugural ceremony will be a highlight of the friendly match. The art forms of the State, performance by artistes from abroad and cine artistes will form part of the programme. Pyrotechnics and laser show are included. Besides GKSF, the Kerala Cricket Association and AMMA are joining hands to organise the event. The admission will be restricted through tickets of Rs.100, 200, 500 and 1,000 to be issued through the branches of the South Indian Bank, the title sponsors of GKSF.http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-kerala/article2722716.ece

Indoor Stadium coming @ Piravam

http://epaper.mathrubhumi.com/epaperimages/17122011/17122011-md-ek-2/42942515.JPG

http://epaper.mathrubhumi.com/epaperimages/17122011/17122011-md-ek-2/42942515.JPG

Lot of Indoor stadiums are coming up..... I don't understand, why should we spending more money for same facilities here and there.... Already Kochi has a state-of-the-art Indoor stadium, which is rated one of the best in the country. Another one is coming in CIAL, which is going atleast 3 to 4 times bigger than current one.... A third one is coming in Kothamangalam, which is also bigger.... Another one is planned in Infopark-2

So I still don't understand need of 4th/5th facility..... Why not something else like Shooting range or a race-course or a foot-ball stadium or athletics stadium?

^^

I still don't get it, why these money can't be invested in developing existing infra than going for a completely new structure.

^^

I still don't get it, why these money can't be invested in developing existing infra than going for a completely new structure.

I think it is necessary to have basic facilities in different locations. I dont think it is fair to ask everyone to go to Kadavanthara to play badminton in a proper court. Lack of easy access to basic sporting facilities is very acute in a city like kochi.

I think it is necessary to have basic facilities in different locations. I dont think it is fair to ask everyone to go to Kadavanthara to play badminton in a proper court. Lack of easy access to basic sporting facilities is very acute in a city like kochi.

Its true that we need more facilities to spread out to allow more people to play and develop sporting talents.... But in general, when we lack almost all world class arenas , there is no point in over-developing one set of stadias, ignoring others....

Ofcourse, one of key strength is in Athletics, whereas a city like ours has only 2 synthetic tracks... We require more pratice synthetic tracks, especially in interior areas like Kothamangalam-Piravom, which has many good athletes.... There is not even on single proper Hockey stadium or Tennis proper court in our district.... Football is more pathetic than this.... The state's biggest football stadium is now a cricket stadium and we are yet to develop Ambedkar Stadium into a full fledged Soccer stadium.... I think, instead of developing Indoor stadiums here and there, we need to develop other stadiums like Football, Athletic etc.....

^^ i doubt this can be called as an indoor stadium in its actual terms. it is basically a practice facility they planned for. 22 lacs for an indoor stadium means peanuts! check the design as well. These are basic sporting infra's desirable for grooming talents locally. i support such initiatives...especially in places where lot of budding talents available.

i dont think by making stadiums here and there and improving the existing stadiums will help to improve the sports scenario in our state. if we want to develop international level athletes and players we should identify talented athletes from school level itself and then give them necessary training. unfortunately we dont have enough sports schools while other private and government schools does not encourage sports. some of the reputed schools and colleges doesnt even have a proper playground or basic facilities. here in singapore almost every school have facilities for varous sports and games and the polytechnics and universities have indoor stadiums and outdoor stadiums far better than our national stadiums.

^^

Never compare 1.2 billion populated India with 5 million populated Singapore or 8 million dense UAE!

Chirag United beat Prayag to earn first home win (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/chirag-united-beat-prayag-to-earn-first-home-win/212853-5-21.html)
Chirag United Kerala produced their first home win of the season as they defeated Kolkata outfit Prayag United 2-1 in a tight encounter in the tenth round of the I-League at the University Stadium, Trivandrum on Saturday.
David Sunday's brace was the stand-out performance of the day, while Yusif Yakubu reduced the deficit for the away side.
Chirag, in their fifth home match, rallied well and beat Prayag United, considered to be one of the top teams in the league.

The win earns them eight points from ten matches, while Prayag have 17 points. This was the last match for Chirag at Trivandrum. Now, they will take on East Bengal at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi in their next game.

http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/5759/56634493.jpg

Source: Mathrubhumi

Source: Mathrubhumi

Bhaagyam, oru kakka polum shalyappeduthanillaa Stadiathil ;-)

KERALA STRIKERS BEAT TECHNICIANS TEAM

It was only last week various organisations in Mollywood that were on a warpath declared a ceasefire. Yet, members of Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) and technicians in Mollywood had a 'fight' with each other on Friday.Though AMMA emerged winner, all those associated with the film industry -- including the technicians -- were in a jubilant mood. The reason: It was a friendly match between the C -3 Club, the technicians' team, and Kerala Strikers, the AMMA's team.Kerala Strikers reduced C-3 Club to just 57 runs, thanks to some brilliant piece of bowling. Manikkuttan took four wickets for AMMA team, while Naveen Pauly chipped in with another four.In the absence of Mohalal and Indrajith, the captain and vice-captain respectively, Vivek Gopan and Nikhil shouldered the responsibilities. It took only six overs for AMMA's team to post an easy victory over the rivals in the match played at Kalamassery St Paul's College Ground. Good batting by Kalabhavan Prachodh helped the team in winning the match. "The win will be a morale booster for the Kerala Strikers,'' said Pankaj Chandrasenan, coach.Only Farooq and Binu who made 18 and 12 respectively could reach double figures for the C-3 Club. Others succumbed to the Kerala Strikers' attack. The next friendly match will be held in Kochi on December 27.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/Kerala-strikers-beat-technicians-team/articleshow/11228205.cms

World champ who loves Indian food (http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/lifestyle/bodylicious/world-champ-who-loves-indian-food-976)
http://www.deccanchronicle.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/article_vertical/article-images/MR-EGYPT-CUTOUT.jpg.crop_display.jpg
Ahmed Hamoda

Ahmed Hamoda is an Egyptian who started earning his living at the age of 12. Unlike ordinary kids he was more engrossed in making money rather than going to school.

And his career was another extraordinary highlight of his life — he was, amongst other things also a wrestler!

In Kochi as a guest for a fitness competition he says, “I was always pampered by my elder brothers, even now they don’t like me staying away from home.”

But Hamoda had to live away from Egypt from the age of 21 as he was pursuing a career in body building. He spent two decades travelling across the world getting accolades.

“Each time I received a world championship title I was getting more close to the Mr. Universe label,” says Homoda.

Five years ago however, Hamoda met his life partner — Doaa. Doaa is also his personal fitness trainer who joined him half a decade ago.

He claims it was love at first sight, “Doaa reminds me of my mother, she always takes care of me. She is the woman behind my success and now she is my life partner.”

After the couple got married the first place they visited was India. Hamoda is a great admirer of Indian food, and he finds India closer to his heart than Australia where he is settled at present.

Karthik’s double role (http://www.deccanchronicle.com/tabloid/glam-sham/karthik%E2%80%99s-double-role-206)
http://www.deccanchronicle.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/article_vertical/article-images/_MG_6269.jpg.crop_display.jpg
Manoj karthik

Students of The Choice School have eagerly been awaiting Friday for the past three months. This is the day when they not only vie to show off their batting and bowling skills to Karthik Sir, but also get a chance to see the sweeps and sixes that roll of their master’s bat with such ease. But as the littler players take in all the aspects of their favourite game they seem to be unaware of their teacher’s other avatar.

“Cricket and movies are part of my life,” reveals Manoj Karthik the Kannada actor who, apart from blazing a trail in Kannada filmdom with a handful of movies is presently on a mission — to give his favourite game of cricket a new meaning among aspiring youngsters in the city.

But why Kochi? Not many know that Karthik, the master blaster of the Karnataka cricket team and the man who flaunted his acting skills in Lift Kodla is actually a Malayali who cherishes the quietness of his hometown of Tripunithura more so than the hustle and bustle of Bengaluru which has been home to him all this while.

“I’ve never got the opportunity to know my hometown this close,” says the talented cricketer with striking looks who stepped into filmdom after proving himself as one of the best batsman of team Karnataka a few years ago.

A stint as a bubbly video jockey in a popular music programme on Uday TV soon got the six-footer noticed by many in the Kannada film industry.

Though his debut in Sukumara didn’t go well, Lift Kodla, that came packed with a message saw the youngster show off his immense potential as an actor.

“It clicked well as it had something for all sections of movie lovers,” says Karthik who even did a substantial role in I’m sorry Mathebanni Preethsonna.

The movie which was mired in controversy for an intimate scene between the lead characters. But this didn’t dampen the actor’s spirits.

He decided to produce and act in Nenne that told the story of love of an orphan. However, fate had its own say and the movie had to be stalled midway as Karthik met with an accident during the shoot of a fight scene on top of a bus.

“Though Kannada has had a great influence on me, I’m basically a Mallu at heart,” says Karthik for whom acting runs in the family, with his sister Sindhu Menon a renowned actor in Malayalam and Tamil industry.

But Karthik has now decided to give his reel life a break and concentrate on his dream project, the Varma Cricket Club which is on a mission to promote cricket amongst the youth here.

The club equipped with the latest toss machines and speedometers which help to improve bowling speeds, has tied up with 14 schools in Kochi and is gearing up little cricketers for The Choice Cup in January “My life revolves around these little ones,” says the twenty seven year old who is now looking out for sponsors for his project.

Ernakulam league from tomorrow (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-sports/article2746517.ece)
The Ernakulam District A-Division Cricket League, for the Kelappan Thampuran and B.M. Hegde Memorial trophies, begins here on Monday.

Matches will be played over two days and on turf wickets.

Muthoot ECC ‘A' plays Muthoot ECC ‘B' in the championship opener at the St. Paul's College, Kalamassery, on Monday while BPCL Kochi Refinery ‘A' meets TCC ‘A' at Ambalamugal (Dec. 28-29) and V-Guard Swantons takes on Century CC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (Dec. 29-30) in the first set of matches.

All the matches begin at 9.15 a.m.

Miss & Mister Kerala in Kochi
Miss & Mister Kerala organized by Kerala State Body Building Association (http://ksbba.org/index.php) will take place on Jan 12 at Gokulam Convention Centre, Kochi.

About 350 participants will take part in the event. The top 3 winners in each category will be awarded certificates and Rs 50,000 , Rs 40,000 , Rs 30,000 respectively. The winner in the Men's category will win himself a motorcycle and a 3 days trip to Dubai.

Cine stars Mammootty & Swetha Menon will attend the event along with State Ministers.

Metrovartha (http://www.metrovaartha.com/2011/12/22092726/body-building.html)

Super performances mark Gulf Dirt Track National Championship (http://www.dailypioneer.com/state-editions/bhopal/30588-super-performances-mark-gulf-dirt-track-national-championship.html)
High octane competition was witnessed in the three day fourth round of the Gulf Dirt Track National Championship for two-wheelers, held here from December 22 to 24. Racing riders, led by superb performances from Arvind KP, HK Pradeep, Pramod Joshua and R Natraj, stole the show as expected, either winning events in the glamour classes or snatching second or third places.

The event, staged under the aegis of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI), and organised by Mumbai's Sportscraft, had thrills galore as the country's leading riders battled to crown themselves national champions in various categories.

After the resounding success of the first two rounds in Jodhpur and Nashik, the third and fourth rounds staged in Bhopal on Friday and Saturday also saw top class riding from not only by the national level riders but the local talent too exhibited its class riding.

The Bhopal leg was staged at the BHEL Dussehra Ground opposite Carmel School had 12 classes in which riders from Mumbai, Pune, Aurangabad, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Kerala, Hyderabad, Nashik, Indore, Ahmedabad, Baroda, Kochi and Bhopal participated.

Celebrity Cricket match in Kochi on Dec 27 (http://www.deepikaglobal.com/ENG_full.asp?catcode=ENG6&mcode=Sports#57789)
The cricket buffs in the business city will have rare spectacular cricket feast as Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy led team will take on Malayalam superstar Mohan Lal in celebrity cricket match to be held here on December 27. The unique fight, named ‘’GKSF T20’’, played between Malayalam film stars and leading Kerala politicians, organized jointly by the Grand Kerala Shopping festival, Association of Malayalam Movie Artists and Kerala Cricket Association, would of course take the mood of the people and hosts of tourists visited the port city during Christmas and New Year to the peak. The GKSF T 20 would see a string of celebrities participating in the match. The teams - Kerala Stickers - will be led by superstar Mohan Lal and the other team ‘Kerala Legend’ will be led by ‘Oommen Chandy, Chief Minister of Kerala. ‘Kerala Stickers’ will see a grand participation of film stars and the other team ‘Kerala Legends’ will see many ministers and politicians participating in the match. The match will be held at Kaloor International Stadium here.

Toying with idea of "High Performance Centre" (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/toying-with-idea-of-high-performance-centre/215337-60-123.html)
‘Swifter, Higher, Stronger’. Kerala State Sports Council taking a cue from this Olympics motto is toying with the idea of constructing a ‘High Performance Centre’ at Panampally Nagar in Kochi, which if realised will be the first of its kind in the nation.
The elite institution planned on the lines of foreign training centres is being considered to be set up on the sprawling five acres of land at Panampilly Nagar, owned by Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA), which currently houses a government Higher Secondary School and a sports hostel run by Kerala State Sports Council.
The Sports Council and the Sports Department had earlier decided to approve the project of elevating the existing sports hostel to a centralised sports hostel. But the decision ran into rough weather after Bobby Aloysius, Assistant Secretary (Technical), Kerala State Sports Council, submitted a negative report on the project. It was after this that the idea of a high performance centre gained foothold.
Speaking to Express, Thrikkakkara MLA Benny Behanan who is vociferously campaigning for the centre, said that the proposal for setting up a high performance centre at Panampilly Nagar had been on the cards of Kerala Sports Council.
‘’It is an ambitious project which can act as a panacea in the field of sports in the country. Nowadays, acquiring land, that too in the heart of the city, is a Herculean task. But we have five acres of land and that could be used for the purpose. The issue would also be taken up soon with the Sports Minister and officials of Sports Council,’’ he said.
The high performance centre will house a full-fledged gymnasium, indoor stadium, sports medicine centre, swimming pool and lodging facilities. The synthetic track laid on Maharajas College ground would be used by the trainees at the centre.
George Thomas, former national badminton champion, who was one among the early proponents of the idea, said that the initial proposal regarding the high performance centre was submitted two months ago and the minister had visited the school to get a first hand account of the project.
Olympian Bobby Aloysius, who had been to several foreign centres, strongly feels that the state-of-the-art training centre is the need of the hour.
‘’I had been to many countries. We have been shelling out large amounts of money for sending our athletes for training in foreign centres. If we can set up one and draw able trainers and supporting staff, our players will have a strong chance in the future competitions,’’ she said.

Celebrity Cricket match in Kochi on Dec 27 (http://www.deepikaglobal.com/ENG_full.asp?catcode=ENG6&mcode=Sports#57789)

Kerala Stickers???:lol: I thought our team's name is Kerala Strikers

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/5833/99217680.jpg

Source: Mathrubhumi

Nation hold your breath: It's all about the mind (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/Nation-hold-your-breath-Its-all-about-the-mind/articleshow/11311128.cms)

The 30th National Yogasana Championship which began in the city on Thursday was formally inaugurated by tourism minister A P Anil Kumar at Vidyodaya School, Thevakkal, on Friday. Around 530 yoga practitioners are participating in the three-day event which will conclude on Saturday.

"Yoga is not just a physical activity as publicized by certain celebrities, it's all about boosting one's mental and physical agility," said Aneyera Sreekumar, vice-chairman of the Kerala Yoga Association, while speaking on the sidelines of the event. The event organized by the Kerala Yoga Association and National Yoga Federation, is being conducted to spread awareness on the positive effects of performing the art of yoga.

The criterion for selecting the champion is the duration till which a participant can hold a pose. The participants are being accommodated on the school premises.

"The motive behind organizing it, is to attract local people to the art of yoga that has proved itself from time immemorial," said O J Paul, secretary of Ernakulam District Yoga Sports Association.

It is after 28 years that the championship is being held in Kerala. Last it was hosted in 1985, in Kozhikode.

District school youth festival from today

The Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Perumbavoor, wears a festive look, as finishing touches are being given for the much awaited district school youth festival. The festival will commence on Monday.
Around 8,000 students from 400 schools of 14 sub-districts are gearing up for the contests to be held in 318 events at 14 venues.

The registration starts from Monday afternoon.

The festival flag will be hoisted at 9.30 am on Tuesday by deputy director of Education M D Murali.

This year the host school is staging a dance programme before the inaugural ceremony, said the organisers.

A cultural procession of 3,500 students showcasing different art forms will be flagged off at 3 pm from the Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Perumbavoor, by district panchayat president Eldose Kunnappally.

The best three schools will get cash prizes of ` 5000, `3000 and `2000 respectively. P Rajeev MP will distribute the prizes. Prizes for the best logo will be presented by K P Dhanapalan MP.

Excise Minister K Babu will inaugurate the festival at the Girls Higher Secondary School. Saju Paul MLA will preside over the function. Former student of the school actor Ananya will light the ‘Kaladeepam’ in the presence of actor Mithra Kurien, also an alumna. MLAs, district panchayat officials and councillors will be present.

Arabic kalolsavam and Sanskrit kalolsavam are also part of the festival.

PWD Minister V K Ebrahim Kunju will distribute prizes to the winners on January 5. Union Minister K V Thomas will inaugurate the valedictory ceremony on January 6.http://expressbuzz.com/cities/kochi/district-school-youth-festival-from-today/349159.html

Kochi may host IPL matches
KCA has requested BCCI to allot 2 matches in the IPL 2012 to Kochi. Oommen Chandy, K Babu and other central ministers have also demanded the same to Rajiv Shukla, IPL Chairman, who have responded positively to it.

Read more here (http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/mmonline.dll/portal/localContentView.do?tabId=16&programId=1079897624&contentId=10745995&district=Cochin&BV_ID=@@@)

l-7GfHyIztw

Another Cricket Ad..... Kerala Strikers with Mohanlal as captain for Celebrity Cricket League

^^

ഞാന് ചിരിച്ച് മരിക്കും

More to add

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/406475_338183192860367_266249583387062_1424997_303727136_n.jpg

PLEASE GIVE A CAPTION TO THIS

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/409297_334487923229894_266249583387062_1410551_1418838223_n.jpg

Rajinikku Padikkukayannu.... !!

Kerala Strikers Brand Ambassadors

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/378872_338254049519948_266249583387062_1425201_1390753975_n.jpg

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/403768_330192913659395_266249583387062_1395267_898741480_n.jpg
Lakshmi Rai launching CCL Sizzling Calendar of Brand Ambassadors of CCL teams.

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/388001_330820733596613_266249583387062_1397626_559632942_n.jpg

Bhavana posing for CCL Sizzling Calendar

Finally Kunchacko Boban dons his number- 9

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/166905_336449166367103_266249583387062_1416557_464936578_n.jpg

Good to see him... I thought he is not there as never seen on field till now.... He is really good in Tennis.... Hope he will surely make big in cricket too......

Kochi to host IPL matches

KOCHI: The Chennai Super Kings are likely to play some of their IPL matches at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, Kaloor. Cricket fans in the state can watch M S Dhoni and his team in action if Kochi Tuskers Kerala fail to retain their place in IPL season 5.

The Kerala Cricket Association is not confident about the participation of Kochi Tuskers in the upcoming IPL season. However, the KCA has requested the IPL governing council to settle the uncertainty over Tuskers’ participation.

A final decision will be taken on January 11, KCA secretary T C Mathew told reporters here. Chief Minister Oommen Chandy has also requested IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla to award some matches to Kochi in the next season.
IBN-Live (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kochi-might-host-chennai-super-kings-in-ipl-5/217653-60-122.html)





KOCHI: Despite not having an IPL team this season, Kerala hopes to host at least two or three Indian Premier League matches, Kerala Cricket Association secretary TC Mathew said on Tuesday.

A positive signal in this regard was given to Kerala chief minister Oommen Chandy by IPL chairman Rajiv Shukla during their recent meeting at New Delhi, he told reporters.

Sports minister K Babu had informed him in this regard, Mathew said.

At least two or three IPL matches are likely to be given to Kochi, he said, quoting Babu.

BCCI had terminated the KTK franchise last year for breaching the terms of agreement after the franchise was unable to furnish a new bank guarantee.

Mathew said he would meet the IPL chairman at Delhi on January 11 to inform him about Kochi's preparedness to host the matches.

KCA has also requested BCCI president N Srinivasan to give Kochi two matches of Chennai Super Kings, he said adding no positive or negative response has been received so far.

KCA is in the cluster of CSK, he said. The association is yet to receive about Rs 90 lakh from Kochi Tuskers Kerala, he said.

Times of India (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/ipl-2011/news/Kerala-hopes-to-host-2-3-IPL-matches-this-season/articleshow/11353723.cms)

^^ great !
This was expected, as KCA had financial losses due to KTK dismissal.

Lot of effort was put in to make JNIS IPL ready .Good to see that its not wasted just because of an irresponsible franchise. Lets hope MP issue doesnt impact Cricket. :)

Hope this really works out.

But i don't bet on for CSK due to the ongoing MP tussle. More hopes on BRC!

Sreenith in KCA's new ‘Mission Gold' project (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-sports/article2773384.ece)
High jumper Sreenith Mohan had been in two minds a month ago after going over the National schools record in Kochi. He had an offer to join the Army but he was not sure whether to go.

Sponsor

He had a sponsor who was willing to shell out a good sum every month but he turned it down.

The Kerala Cricket Association has now roped in Sreenith, the lone athlete break the national mark in last month's State schools athletics meet here, for its new ‘Mission Gold' project which aims to produce champions in Olympics and other majors in athletics.

Coaches picked

The KCA has also picked high-profile coaches T.P. Ouseph and P.R. Purushothaman to train 10 athletes under the scheme.

Ouseph coached Olympians Anju Bobby George and Bobby Aloysius in their early years while P.R. Purushothaman was the coach of former Asian middle-distance star K.M. Beenamol, also an Olympian.

“We are willing to support the athletes at least for the next five years,” said the KCA Secretary T.C. Mathew here on Tuesday evening.

“We can even think of bringing in foreign coaches or sending them abroad for training.”

KCA's support

The KCA had first announced its plans to support 10 athletes during the recent schools athletics meet here.

The other nine athletes who will come under the scheme will be named soon.

Malappuram's promising long and triple jumper P.V. Suhail is likely to find a place in the list.

The selected athletes will all be based in Kochi and will train at the Nehru Stadium and at the Maharaja's College Ground there.

“Sreenith is one of the most promising jumpers in the country, he is capable of going to the Olympics one day,” said coach Ouseph, who has now quit as the coach of Kothamangalam's Mar Athanasius College.

He was also coaching a few athletes of the Mar Basil School, which emerged as Kerala's champion school in athletics recently.

Cricket is music to ears with strikers' album

In a star-studded event, the cricket team of cine actors of Kerala, Ammas Kerala Strikers, launched its signature music video and website on Tuesday, ahead of its entry into the much-awaited Celebrity Cricket League.

Cricketer S Sreesanth handed over the music CD to actor Prithviraj. The website was officially launched by veteran actor-producer Thyagarajan.

The theme song has been composed by Arun G S, lead guitarist in A R Rahman’s team. Directed by film maker A L Vijay, the 90-second video album features Lakshmi Rai and Bhavana, the members and brand ambassadors of the team.

Kerala’s cultural art forms and the spirit of cricket have perfectly been blended in the beautifully-shot video album.

The video features Mohanlal, Prithviraj, Kunchacko Boban and Asif Ali.

The video was shot in 15 days across various locations in South India with the support of expert technicians in the industry.The official website www.cclt20.in (http://www.cclt20.in) can act as a window to the entire team activities.

There will be updates on all the actions happening during the matches and fans can get the latest reports from the stadium with exclusive photographs.

Those who dedicate more time to the website can enjoy free tickets and their photographs will be published on the site as ‘fan of the month’. The first match of the team will be held in Hyderabad on January 21 and first home match is scheduled for January 22 at Jawaharlal International Stadium at Kaloor against the Bollywood team. The finals will be held on February 12 at Hyderabad.

Team owners Lissy Priyadarshan and Shaji P M were present. However, team captain and co-owner Mohanlal could not make it to the function.http://expressbuzz.com/cities/kochi/cricket-is-music-to-ears-with-strikers-album/349709.html

Celebrity Cricket match in Kochi on Dec 27 (http://www.deepikaglobal.com/ENG_full.asp?catcode=ENG6&mcode=Sports#57789)

What happened to this match?

Check out Kerala Strikers Website. (http://keralastrikers.in/)

First Match in Kochi is on 22/01/2012 Vs Mumbai Heroes

A home team without a home! (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-sports/article2784615.ece)
As they came out of the gym, the Chirag United Kerala players had a look at the junior cricket action at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on Saturday evening.

Chirag plays its next I-League home match at the Nehru Stadium here on January 22 but there is a cloud of confusion over that game. Two Celebrity Cricket League matches, including one featuring Kerala Strikers — the film stars' team led by Malayalam actor Mohanlal — and Mumbai Heroes, has also been fixed for the same evening.

With both parties going ahead with their preparations, the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA), the guardian of the Nehru Stadium, has now called the Kerala Strikers' management and the Kerala Football Association for a meeting on January 10 to settle the issue.

Like a pool table

“We hope our match happens here, because we are getting used to the ground very nicely,” said the Chirag coach Nizam Packir Ali outside the Nehru Stadium on Friday evening. “Will be very happy if we have the match here… the turf here is like a pool table, smooth and lovely. These guys are also good with ground balls, so this suits our players well.”

It's shocking that Kerala's lone I-League football team should run from place to place hunting for a ground to play its home games. Chirag, earlier Viva Kerala, came into being in Kochi but it was forced to play its I-League home matches in Kozhikode and Kannur the last few years. It played a few home matches in Thiruvananthapuram this season as the Kochi venue was busy with the Ranji Trophy cricket action a couple of months ago.

“This is a home team without a home,” said Packir Ali.

The Kerala Football Association is clear in its stand that it will have Chirag's game at the Nehru Stadium on January 22 since it had booked the ground months ago.

The GCDA has given the stadium on a five-year lease to the Kerala Cricket Association but there is an agreement between the KCA and the KFA that whenever there is a national or international football event in Kochi, the stadium would be given to football if there is no cricket match of similar nature fixed at the venue.

“It will definitely be a violation of that agreement if the ground is given to the celebrity cricket match,” said K.M.I. Mather, the KFA President. ”And the Nehru Stadium was built for football.”

The All India Football Federation's Executive Committee meeting, in New Delhi on January 10, will also be held around the same time of the GCDA meeting in Kochi.

Kerala Strikers start practice for CCL @ Tripunithura Palace Oval (http://www.cricketarchive.com/Kerala/Grounds/3836.html)

will play Mumbai Heroes at Kochi on 22nd Jan

http://img696.imageshack.us/img696/2392/1copyljb.jpg
Source: Manorama

9DlR9mMYKvQ

Catch Mohanlal's Fast Bowling at Palace Oval....

Corporation to built new Football Stadium @ Thoppumpady

http://img827.imageshack.us/img827/2696/10082011154copy.jpg
Stadium construction to start on Jan 23 (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/west-kochi-to-get-a-mini-stadium/220138-60-122.html)
West Kochi’s long pending demand for a modern play ground will soon be met in form of a modern mini stadium at Thoppumpady. Planning Commission deputy chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia will inaugurate the construction of the stadium on January 23 here.
The residents of West Kochi area, which has produced many talented footballers, have been asking for a play ground with modern facilities. Though Fort Kochi Veli ground and parade ground are being used for local tournaments and coaching, both these grounds do not have any facility and are in pathetic condition too.
The proposed stadium will come up on two acres of land provided by the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) at Mundamveli. The project for a stadium was proposed by Union Minister of State for Food and Civil Supplies K V Thomas. Funds for the project are allotted from MP funds of the K V Thomas and Charles Dias.
The land given by the GCDA had been lying idle for more than 10 years. “A compound wall was constructed a few years back and recently the ground was elevated through reclamation,” said Thyagarajan, former councillor of the Kochi Corporation who took the initiative to get the land allotted from the GCDA.
“The proposed stadium will be constructed at a cost of `1.60 crore. Though it has been planned as a football stadium, it can be utilized for other purposes as well. It will have all the facilities that a stadium needs.
The work is being carried out by the licenced contractors with an experience in constructing stadiums,” said the officials of Minister K V Thomas’ office in Kochi.

^^^^ Nice !!

Kochi is getting Double Bonaza today.:banana:

Two state of the art Multipurpose Synthetic Sports Court are getting opened to Public today. The Piravom Multipurpose Court located in St.Joseph's High School, is designed to train students and sports aspirants in volley ball, basket ball, Tennis and Badminton will be opened by Sports Minister Ganesh Kumar at 2:30 Pm.

While the state-of-the art Multipurpose Synthetic court at M.A College in Kothamangalam was inagurated by the Minister today morning. The Minister will also lay foundation for Indoor Stadium at the college.

The Court in M.A College was granted by Kerala Sports Council, to train professionals and aspirants in Volleyball and Tennis.

Action-packed ‘Goal 2012’ from Monday (http://http://expressbuzz.com/cities/kochi/action-packed-%E2%80%98goal-2012%E2%80%99-from-monday/352890.html)


Football-crazy Kerala will see young blood in action for two weeks from Monday to capture the glory of ‘Goal 2012,’ an initiative taken by The New Indian Express Group with a vision to raise youth power to the heights of world football. ‘Goal 2012’ has put its best foot forward with a prize money of Rs 1 lakh and the champion’s crown for the winning team and `50,000 for the runner-up. In addition, there will be cash incentives for the best players in various categories.
The intercollegiate tournament, to be held at Maharaja’s College ground here from January 16 to 29 on a league-cum- knock-out basis, will feature the best 16 teams from four major universities in the state. The tournament will break fresh ground as it may be for the first time that some of these teams face each other.
Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Ajay Maken will kick off the tournament at 2.15 pm on Monday. Public Works Minister V K Ibrahim Kunj, international footballers I M Vijayan and Joe Paul Ancherry will attend the function.
Prior to the inauguration, the theme song of ‘Goal 2012’ will be released at Casino Hotel. Maken, Mayor Tony Chammany, Hibi Eden, MLA and New Indian Express Editorial Director Prabhu Chawla will be present.
The 16 teams would be divided into four groups, from which the toppers will enter the semis. There will be two matches on all days - at 2.45 pm and 4.30 pm.
The TNIE initiative is to instil football professionalism at the college level.
This will also be a big opportunity for scouts from major clubs to spot young talent. The entry to the tournament is free.

CIAL Golf and Country Club hosting its first National Event, the south zone Junior Golf Championship from tommorrow onwards

http://epaper.manoramaonline.com/MMDaily/Kochi/2012/01/14/F/MMDaily_Kochi_2012_01_14_F_MT_027/350_2_1960_980.jpg

After Argentina and Bayern Munich, it could be the turn of Lionel Messi (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/Lionel-Messi) to make his second trip to India within a few months, this time in FC Barcelona (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/Barcelona) colours, if the plans of the Indian promoters of the trip go according to script.

"So far they had several offers but rejected many of them. But they are very keen to tour India this summer. We started negotiations six months back and we expect to get a final word with a week's time. Since it is a such a big club they have to get approvals from several Boards. The chances are very good," Lugo told TOI from Buenos Aires.

"The tour of Barcelona is being planned with Mumbai, Bangalore and Kochi as the likely venues. We are hoping to conduct the matches at the DY Patil stadium in Mumbai, Sree Kanteerava stadium in Bangalore and the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium in Kochi."


source (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/Barcelona-intend-to-play-exhibition-match-in-India/articleshow/11482699.cms)

^^

Barcelona & AC-Milan to play in Kochi ?

Let's hope this works out.

http://www.mathrubhumi.com/sports/story.php?id=230172
OMG, it seems its working out. Not sure if AC Milan come or not. But FCB alone is more than what Kochi can hold! :cheers:

CCL wins in Kochi, Chirag's I-League game put off (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-sports/article2803098.ece)
Kerala's lone I-League football team, Chirag United Kerala, has been forced to postpone its January 22 home game against Pailan Arrows at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here and the ground will now host the Kerala Strikers' Celebrity Cricket League match on the same day.

With both the country's premier football league match and the film stars' cricket league game being fixed on the same day at the Nehru Stadium, there was confusion about who would get the ground. It's now clear, the film world has triumphed over sport.

“The AIFF (All India Football Federation) had received a request from the Celebrity Cricket League in this regard, we made our position clear… that there was no chance of shifting the Kochi venue, so it has postponed the I-League game,” said the KFA President K.M.I. Mather on Saturday evening.

The new date of the I-League match has not been announced yet but it is likely to be held towards the end of the championship, in late April.

Since Chirag hosts Bangalore's HAL at the same venue on January 28, the KFA will give a letter to the GCDA – the stadium's guardian – requesting it to ensure that the CCL action does not in any way damage the ground.

South zone Junior Golf Championship set off at CIAL Golf Club
http://img707.imageshack.us/img707/2272/50146895.jpg
Source: Manorama

MA Trophy All India Inter-School Football Tournament at Aluva Municipal Stadium

Pre-Quarter match to be played today

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/6541/21481646.jpg
Source: Manorama

Prithviraj and Asif Ali may be axed from Kerala Strikers

Asif Ali, one of the most promising young stars in Malayalam cinema, is likely to be axed from Malayalam cine actors cricket team AMMA’s Kerala Strikers. He has not been reporting at the training camps and had not even informed the team officials the reason of his absence. Sources in the team said that they were not able to contact him over phone or in person. Another young star, Prithviraj is also not attending the training camp but he had officially informed that he was busy with his shooting schedule.

However, the Kerala Strikers team for its first Celebrity Cricket League (CCL) match against Chennai Rhinos will be announced on Tuesday.

A sixteen-member squad will be selected from the nineteen teammates. “It is a confusing task to drop three players from equally talented cricketers. It will be further difficult to drop five more players to select the 11-member squad for the match,” team coach Chandrasenan said.

Expressing confidence in his team, coach Chandrasenan said: “I hope no team will pose a threat to us. We have seven all-rounders in the team, who are good at taking on any ball and also to bowl round the wicket.”

The team will start practising on their home ground at the Jawaharlal Nehru International stadium, Kaloor, from Monday. The team will leave for Hyderabad on January 20 for their first match in CCL against Chennai Rhinos.

Ticket distribution for the Strikers’ lone home match, scheduled for January 22, against Mumbai Heroes will kickstart within a couple of days. The match will have the presence of major Malyalam film actors, politicians and other VIPs.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kerala-strikers-likely-to-axe-asif-ali/221227-60-122.html

^^ I m not sure how well Kerala Strikers is going 2 perform after seeing teams like Karnataka Bulldozers and Telugu Warriors...KB yesterday scored 252 in 20 Overs...and most of them lookes to be seasoned cricketers..:)

Soccer spirit set to soar from Monday (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/soccer-spirit-set-to-soar-from-monday/221185-60-122.html)
It is going to be days of soccer in Kochi from Monday. For the next 14 days, the city will see young blood in action. ‘Goal 2012’, an inter-collegiate football tournament organised by The New Indian Express at Maharaja’s College Ground, is poised to give football lovers an unforgettable soccer experience. The tourney will see 16 college teams from across the state fighting it out for the championship trophy.
Union Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Ajay Maken will kick off the tournament to be held at Maharaja’s College ground at 2.15 p.m. Works Minister V K Ibrahim Kunju will preside over the function.
Ace footballers I M Vijayan and Joe Paul Ancherry, Hibi Eden MLA, Mayor Tony Chammany, The New Indian Express Editorial Director Prabhu Chawla and others will also be present. Prior to the inauguration, Union Minister Ajay Maken will formally launch the tournament and release its theme song at a function to be held at Hotel Casino at 11 a.m.
The initiative has been undertaken with a vision to bring youth power to the heights of world football.
The tournament is unique in its structure and format. While the winners will walk away with a prize money of Rs 1 lakh and the champion’s crown, the runners up will receive a prize money of 50,000. In addition, there will be six individual awards for players in various categories, including the the best player of the tournament, top scorer, best goal keeper, best forward and others.
The tournament, to be organised in a league-cum-knock-out basis, will feature the best 16 teams from four major universities in the state.
It could well be the first time some of these teams face each other in a tournament. Hence, it would be a big opportunity for scouts from major clubs to spot young talent.
The entry to the tournament is free.

Source : Mathrubhumi (http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?contentId=10834875&tabId=8&BV_ID=@@@)

Speedway Dirt Hunt – 2012 (http://http://motoxindia.com/ai1ec_event/speedway-dirt-hunt-2012/?instance_id=)

http://i42.tinypic.com/2d1v68h.jpg

Speedway Motorsports Club have decided to conduct our 4th Dirt Bike Race.

1. Group B Speedway Open Class 2 & 4 Stroke – 1 Moto
2. Group B Indian Open Class 2 & 4 Stroke – 1 Moto
3. Group B Indian Expert Class 2 & 4 Stroke – 1 Moto
4. Group B Intermediate Class 2 & 4 Stroke – 1 Moto
5. Group C Novice Class 2 & 4 Stroke – 1 Moto

Best Rider
The rider with maximum points in the event will be considered as Best Rider of the event.

When: February 5th 2012
Where: Near Smart City Kochi

http://i43.tinypic.com/abdaw.jpg
kochigallan

Any one knows the current status pls...:ohno:

^^

Since, even the Kochi IPL team remains have been blown away! the possibility of a new stadium looks like a distant dream. KCA have put in some amount of money into JNIS, which they have to reclaim by conducting other matches. Also there ain't any emergency in this regard.

^^

Since, even the Kochi IPL team remains have been blown away! the possibility of a new stadium looks like a distant dream. KCA have put in some amount of money into JNIS, which they have to reclaim by conducting other matches. Also there ain't any emergency in this regard.

There is still an emergency, as IPL is again going back to Auction for new team by 2014.... So Kerala again have chance, if Priyan and others come together and get it legally.... Ofcourse, we can expect all lobbies for Ahmedabad together and one of their strong pressure will be citing that KCA doesn't have its own stadium, unlike other teams...

The best I feel to be done is Hand-over JNIS to KCA forever. KCA will have to redo the stadium design and format to match more international standards. In future, KCA can develop a mini-Cricket stadium over Edakochi land after convincing all, using the best environmental friendly practices, much like Tripunithara Palace Oval to ease the pressure on it.

Once International Soccer stadium comes up in Infopark-2, that puts an end to Kochi urgent need for a International Football ground, along with redesign and development of Ambedkar Football Stadium.

Secondly mistakes must be identified and the new team if won, must be branded cautiously as Kerala Team... We saw this fervor as in case of Kerala Strikers.... Thank God, they never gone in for Kochi Strikers, which would have alienated them from all parts of State.....

^^

AFAIK, no new team is going to be inducted in to IPL again.

^^

AFAIK, no new team is going to be inducted in to IPL again.

I understand, there is another chance.... It was reported in TOI.... Don't know whether its authentic or not

http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-01-13/news/30624402_1_ipl-clt20-kochi-tuskers

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/395055_284639051592162_124187674303968_816024_1642209641_n.jpg

Asif, Prithvi out of 'Kerala Strikers' (http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/malayalam/article/76848.html)
Young stars Asif Ali and Prithviraj has opted out of the Kerala Strikers cricket team, that is getting ready to have its first match next week. The younger stars are citing their heavy shooting schedules for not playing in the matches. The team including its captain Mohanlal and Indrajith is having heavy practise sessions at the Kochi stadium and many complaints were raised by the fellow stars against Asif Ali for not attending the practise sessions. He was reported to be not taking any phones from the management and team coach for the last few weeks.

Anyhow, the Kerala strikers will have its first match in the Celebrity Cricket League (CCL) against Karnataka bull dozers on the 21st of this month at Hyderabad. Their first home match will be on the very next day where they will meet Bombay heroes captained by Salman Khan.

Kerala Strikers vs Mumbai Heroes on 22-Jan ...Bengal Tigers plays Chennai Rhinos the same day....:banana:

....Kochi will get to see bollywood,Kollywood and Mollywood stars in action on the same day....LIVE !!! :banana: :banana: :banana:

Kerala Strikers vs Mumbai Heroes on 22-Jan ...Bengal Tigers plays Chennai Rhinos the same day....:banana:

....Kochi will get to see bollywood,Kollywood and Mollywood stars in action on the same day....LIVE !!! :banana: :banana: :banana:

COCHIN CORPORATION BACK TO ITS DIRTY TRICKS; WE MAY HAVE ANOTHER TALE OF LOSS

There are unconfirmed reports, the corporation of Cochin, seeking high taxes for Tickets of Kerala Strikers.....

Lissy Priyadarshan said, if Corporation continues its anti-development activities, they may be forced to opt Dubai ICC stadium as Kerala's home ground...

Meanwhile reports says Priyadarshan has asked Sports Minister to intervene into the issue.....

^^^^^^^^

Its True!!! The report is confirmed!!!!

Mohanlal and Priyan met Ommen Chandy to complain poor state and unfavourable attitude of officials of Cochin Corporation and GCDA!!!

Mohanlal said, they were asked to pay Rs 20 Lakh for use of stadium, yet no basic facilities were provided in the stadium. Since the ground is maintained by KCA, its okay. However the toilets and stadium maintenance were of extreme poor standards. Despite of KCA's and Kerala strikers repeated request, GCDA didn't do any maintanence. Rather was busy in leasing their front land for exhibitions, curtailing even parking space for the event as well as compromising security.

The Corporation of Cochin was demanding an unheard 48% tax on ticket, when national level taxes were less than 20%.... They were even demanding taxes on complementary passes, forcing the team to declare all seats free to avoid paying tax....

In this way, the team is facing extreme financial crisis.... KCA and Kerala strikers, filed ultimatum that if GCDA and Corporation continues this anti-development attitude, they will opt Dubai from next season onwards.

Ommen Chandy said, he will look into it and asked Ganesh Kumar to intervene.

^^ Cochin Corporation and GCDA...Pathetic :bash:

Attitude is simply because there are no other stadium's of international standard in the state. Let the Tvm project gets complete then teams will show the middle fin**r to them.

^^ Cochin Corporation and GCDA...Pathetic :bash:

Attitude is simply because there are no other stadium's of international standard in the state. Let the Tvm project gets complete then teams will show the middle fin**r to them.

Anyway, its high time, TVM stadium as well as the KCA's new facility in Wayanad to come up..... Then only, it will throw competition to Kochi....

We must be grateful, that Govt is not planning to extend Cochin Corporation to other areas.... Else these idiots will spoil the development happening in other parts of the city....

Anyway, Lissy Priyandarshan has downplayed the incident... I hope she might got some assurances from OC....

Lissy and Mohanlal, while proceeding to Hyderabad today morning, clarified to the media they are not planning to move out of Kochi.... Mohanlal said, since the proceeds of the match were meant for charity, it was of paramount importance for the team to get concessions and sops from GCDA and Govt... He said, they will try to get the fees reduced.

Lissy clarified that Kerala strikers is the only team, that haven't chosen Dubai as Home Ground, despite of large number of Malayalees there. And they were particular to play in Kochi, to break the wrong attitude. However she said, its not fair to traumatize investors who want to break the jinx.

All the Best Kerala Strikers!!! Tommorrow is the D-Day for Kerala Strikers for its first Match in Hyderabad:cheers:

http://epaper.mathrubhumi.com/epaperimages/2012012/2012012-md-ek-2/24141859.JPG

http://epaper.manoramaonline.com/MMDaily/Kochi/2012/01/21/F/MMDaily_Kochi_2012_01_21_F_GN_004/760_1242_1932_1494.jpg

Mohanlal rules out moving out of Kochi as Kerala Strikers Home Ground.

He said, he got assurance from Ommen Chandy to solve every issue he raised.

Kerala Strikers lose their debut match in CCL

സെലിബ്രിറ്റി ക്രിക്കറ്റ്: കേരളം പൊരുതി തോറ്റു (http://www.mathrubhumi.com/story.php?id=246255)
ഒരു തട്ടുപൊളിപ്പന് സിനിമ പോലെ അടിമുടി ആവേശം നിറഞ്ഞുനിന്ന സെലിബ്രിറ്റി ക്രിക്കറ്റ് ലീഗ് മത്സരത്തില് ബിഗ് സ്ര്കീനിലെ താരങ്ങള് കളിക്കളം കീഴടക്കിയപ്പോള് തമിഴ്നാടിന് ജയം. സിനിമാതാരങ്ങള് അണിനിരന്ന സെലിബ്രിറ്റി ക്രിക്കറ്റ് ലീഗില് കേരളാ സ്ട്രൈക്കേഴ്സിനെതിരെ ചെന്നൈ റൈനോസ് ജയിച്ചു.

20 ഓവര് മത്സരത്തില് 112 റണ്സ് എടുക്കുന്നതിനിടയില് കേരളാ താരങ്ങള് എല്ലാവരും പുറത്താവുകയായിരുന്നു. മോഡലും നടനുമായ രാജീവ് പിള്ളയാണ് ടോപ് സ്കോറര്. സൈജു കുറുപ്പ്, ബിനീഷ് കൊടിയേരി എന്നിവരും മികച്ച രീതിയില് ബാറ്റുചെയ്തു. ടോസ് നേടിയ കേരളാ ക്യാപ്റ്റന് മോഹന്ലാല് ബാറ്റിങ് തിരഞ്ഞെടുക്കുകയായിരുന്നു. നടന് വിശാലാണ് തമിഴ്നാട് ടീം ക്യാപ്റ്റന്.

ബിനീഷ് കോടിയേരിയുടേയും സൈജു കുറുപ്പിന്റേയും മികച്ച ബൗളിങ് പ്രകടനമാണ് കേരളത്തിന് പ്രതീക്ഷ നല്കിയത്. എന്നാല് അവസാന വിക്കറ്റില് നിര്ണ്ണായകമായ അവസാന ഓവറില് തമിഴ്നാട് ലക്ഷ്യം കണ്ടു. തോറ്റെങ്കിലും മികച്ച പ്രകടനം പുറത്തെടുത്തുവെന്ന് അഭിമാനിച്ച് മോഹന്ലാലിനും സംഘത്തിനും മടങ്ങാം. കൊച്ചിയില് ഞായറാഴ്ച്ച ബോളിവുഡ് താരങ്ങളുടെ ടീമായ മുംബൈ ഹീറോസുമായാണ് കേരളത്തിന്റെ മത്സരം.

Kerala Strikers lose their debut match in CCL

സെലിബ്രിറ്റി ക്രിക്കറ്റ്: കേരളം പൊരുതി തോറ്റു (http://www.mathrubhumi.com/story.php?id=246255)

Actually it was a very marginal victory for Chennai and a very small luck played a decisive factor.... Moreover lack of experience in cricket by most of Kerala actors, especially 20:20 format and first time experience in CCL, also played a role....

But the team done its excellent work, though some of the players like Kunchacko, Nikhil etc disappointed due to their terrible lack of experience.... Infact I felt pity for Kunchacko, as it was a very small minute mistake, made him out at first instance, which shows it was lack of experience, playing a key factor.....

I hated the commentators work in unnecessarily praising Mohanlal..... It reminds me Padmashree Bharat Dr Saroj Kumar format..... And cleverally, they didn't show any of Mohanlal's action of ground, while switching to interviews etc when Lal was playing....

I am not saying, Lal is not a great actor.... But its worthless to say 100 times, all its titles while addressing him.....

^^

The 2nd last over of the match bowled by Vivek was the turning point, it was Kerala striker's game till then. Ironically, he is the only player in the team with some real cricket experience! :nuts:

Mumbai Heroes Vs Kerala Strikers in Kochi

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/5925/39486030384280029701331.jpg

Sunil Shetty (Cap) and Bobby Deol practicing in Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium Ground

Source: Manorama

Nice to see a packed JN stadium for the today's CCL match :cheers:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/408109_287286321327435_124187674303968_821278_1573369748_n.jpg

Extremely happy to see JNIS packed with more than 60,000 spectators... The biggest surprise came to me seeing there are such a huge Bengal Supporters in Kerala!!!! It might be several Bengali migrants supporting so!!

This is a fitting reply to those who messed up IPL Kochi and said the city doesnot support cricket!!!... A good Pan Kerala Branding, positive feeling, fair ticketing and of-course support of political class would have taken it to a new level....

Unfortunately we lost, but might be a sign of better future!!!!

^^

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/408310_350948534917166_266249583387062_1459599_489374559_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/401734_350969101581776_266249583387062_1459640_1763214072_n.jpg

Kochi proves lucky ground for Kerala Strikers!!!!

http://keralastrikers.in/wp-content/themes/theme1193/myimages/slideshow/99_2.jpg

Kerala strikers made their first win against the powerful Mumbai Heros in presence more than 60,000 crowds!!!!

Congrats Kerala Strikers for making a memorable day. Rajeev Pillai is the star of the day. To add along, Nivin Pauly, Bineesh Koodeyeri, Unni Mukunand and Saiju Kurup added spice for the massive victory!!!!

Extremely happy to see JNIS packed with more than 60,000 spectators... The biggest surprise came to me seeing there are such a huge Bengal Supporters in Kerala!!!! It might be several Bengali migrants supporting so!!

This is a fitting reply to those who messed up IPL Kochi and said the city doesnot support cricket!!!... A good Pan Kerala Branding, positive feeling, fair ticketing and of-course support of political class would have taken it to a new level....

Unfortunately we lost, but might be a sign of better future!!!!

Well said MI..todays crowd was unblvble...KTK have only themselves to blame for messing it up.:bash:

City & State really showed we are pretty much on par with the metro's in hosting such events :banana:

What celebrity? Leave my case, as I don't follow movies. My wife was asking who are these people? Only Lal, Indran, Bala, Saiju and Manikuttan are known. Bineesh have celebrity, but in something else. Rest are unknown to me. What does the others do in movie world?

And who the hell is P. Kalabhavan?

^^

I think Kerala team is much better in that case than Mumbai or even Chennai. We have people like Mohanlal, Indrajith, Manikuttan, Bala, Saiju Kurup, Nivin Pauly, Kunchako, Bala, Unni Mukundan etc, who have played the main character in atleast one movie! ;)

I can't identify many from Mumbai team!

Anyway the team played superbly in front of their home crowd, who challenged the metro's with their massive presence!

What celebrity? Leave my case, as I don't follow movies. My wife was asking who are these people? Only Lal, Indran, Bala, Saiju and Manikuttan are known. Bineesh have celebrity, but in something else. Rest are unknown to me. What does the others do in movie world?

And who the hell is P. Kalabhavan?

Thats Prajod Kalabhavan...He along with sajan palluruthy used to host a show called comedy time sometime back on TV (dont remember if it was asianet or surya). Each and every person that played in our team except Vivek Gopan (U-19 Kerala Player who acted in Marubhoomi Kadha) are really part of Mollywood. Rajeev pillai would be one of the least experienced in the world of cinema..but he is well known as a model turned actor and has acted in City of God and few more expected to release soon..

^^

I think Kerala team is much better in that case than Mumbai or even Chennai. We have people like Mohanlal, Indrajith, Manikuttan, Bala, Saiju Kurup, Nivin Pauly, Kunchako, Bala, Unni Mukundan etc, who have played the main character in atleast one movie! ;)

I can't identify many from Mumbai team!

Anyway the team played superbly in front of their home crowd, who challenged the metro's with their massive presence!

Mumbai team is a mix of TV and Movie artist .Its may be the TV artists whom you might not be fully familiar with...Actors like Varun Badola..Shabir Ahuliwala..etc.

http://img856.imageshack.us/img856/9381/39531029729475365087710.jpg

What celebrity? Leave my case, as I don't follow movies. My wife was asking who are these people? Only Lal, Indran, Bala, Saiju and Manikuttan are known. Bineesh have celebrity, but in something else. Rest are unknown to me. What does the others do in movie world?

And who the hell is P. Kalabhavan?

I don't think, the celebrities of Malluwoods are unknown in the league... Ofcourse there are newbies and its required as we cannot expect all veterans in the field....

P.Kalabhavan is Prajod Kalabhavan, quite popular Mimickry artist, a popular television anchor and acted in quite number of movies

http://cochinkalabhavan.com/images/prajod_03.jpg

I hope you recollect his face....

Most of the guys in Kerala strikers have acted one or two movies, except Gopan, which appears a totally stranger for me

http://www.keralatv.in/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Kerala-Strikers-Team.jpg

For those who want to know who is who

Starting from Left Standing

1. Kunchacko Boban

2. Renjith Menon:- Has acted in 6 movies; Goal (Hero), Holidays, Janakan, Dr.Love and Sevenes.....

3. Saiju Kurup (Known as Anirudh in Tamil):- Acted in several movies; Mayukam (Mamta's first film); Hello etc are better known

4. Gopan:- Don't know whether he acted any movies; but he is an Under 19 cricket team player

5. Bala:- Once a popular Tamil Actor, now well known in Malayalam industry with several movies

6. Next person; I don't know... Might be some Manager/team trainer

7. Nikhil:- A popular playback singer, who shot into fame thro' Kairali TV's Sing N Win television show

8. Idavela Babu:- Team Manager; AMMA's secretary and popular support actor

9. Mohanlal

10. Bhavana- Brand Ambassador

11. Indrajith:- Popular Malayalam actor

12. Nivin Pauly:- The actor who played lead role in Malarvady Arts Club, also in movie Sevenes.

13. Munna:- He has acted only 2 malayalam movies- Gaurishankaram and Mohabbat, but better known as Jayabharathi's nephew as well as in recent Manirantham's Ravan in Tamil

14. Unni Mukunand:- A new actor, he shot into fame for his performance in Bombay March 12. Also acted in Bangkok Summer and one Tamil Movie. His upcoming movie- Mallu Singh.... He is an Ahmedabad based Malayali

15. Rajeev Pillai:- He is better known to Mumbai and Delhi crowd as one of India's supermodel. A regular face and show-stopper in Lakme Fashion Week and other international fashion event. Acted only in one Malayalam movie- City of God

16. Riyaz Khan:- A popular Villain in several Malayalam and Tamil movies.

17. Prithiviraj:- One of the promising upcoming stars in Malayalam

From left- Sitting

1. Prajod Kalabhavan

2. Bineesh Kodeyeri:- Acted in one movie, son of former Kerala Home Minister Kodeyeri and now working in Ravi Pillai Group

3. Asif Ali:- One of the promising upcoming star. Acted in 5 movies. Salt N Pepper, Rithu etc are well known

4. Manikuttan:- Once a popular serial star protraying the historic Kayamkulam Kochunni role, Manikkuttan has acted several Malayalam movies in support roles

5. Vinu Mohan:- Started his career in 2005 in hit movie Nivedyam, he has acted around 6 to 7 movies.... Grandson of Famous legend Kottakara Sreedharan Nair.....

^^ Just one correction..

Bineesh Kodiyeri has acted in 4-5 movies atleast...remeber seeing him in few Major Ravi flicks

Vivek Gopan seems to be some kind of stratergy by Priyan. He is a proper cricketer without doubt.

http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/5925/39486030384280029701331.jpg

Source: Manorama

http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/5925/39486030384280029701331.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/394077_10150625164032774_257135417773_10961518_58773510_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/397293_241125285961577_160457877361652_541748_95317165_n.jpg

15. Rajeev Pillai:- He is better known to Mumbai and Delhi crowd as one of India's supermodel. A regular face and show-stopper in Lakme Fashion Week and other international fashion event. Acted only in one Malayalam movie- City of God



Pillai has acted 4 or 5 malayalam movies so far..Bangkok summer, London dreams, Tejabhai,Bombay march etc..
see this

http://www.metromatinee.com/artist/Rajeev%20Govinda%20Pillai-2516

yesterday's crowd was unbelievable.... It really showed that the lack of crowd for IPL matches was due to the mismanagement /marketing failure of KTK...

yesterday's crowd was unbelievable.... It really showed that the lack of crowd for IPL matches was due to the mismanagement /marketing failure of KTK...

Actually even for IPL, on fourth day and last day the crowd was almost like this... Only initial 3 days, the crowd was less, that too in terms of Kochi's stadium's capacity, not in general IPL context....

It was primarily media (read non-Malayalam) that spread the news, that crowd response was poor.... I feel, it was a joint move of a lobby to move the venue under such a pretext, which later resulted in dissolving it....

Cricket is something thats catching up in Kerala, like anywhere in India.... But unless you market it, create a fan loyalty, team spirit, good promotions, fair ticketing as well as better overall support facilities, its not going to be hit, irrespective the place being held, even if its in Mumbai..... Otherwise, there should have been huge crowds for Ranji Trophies matches....

I am sure, for Priyan, Ravi and others, its a purview to see how well the market is, so that they can try bidding for 2014 team....

^^

Along with the uninterested action by the management, few other factors for KTK failure are;

1) KTK did not had a star player unlike other teams. (The main crowd pullers for KTK were Mahela & McCullum)
2) High ticket rates (no one would want to spend Rs 400 for a gallery seat!)
3) The event was always put on controversy by the management & Cochin corporation, which toned down the interest of the spectators.
4) The huge ground made it feel the crowd was on the lower side!

A main reason for the ground to be full was because almost all the tickets were free passes which were distributed through fans associations and others.. so lets dont say it was a crowd puller due to the stars..

They didn't even print any numbers in the tickets and those who came in late couldn't get in as the stadium was full even though they had a valid "ticket" with them..

But as always if KTK had got the pricing around 150-200 for gallery we would definitely had packed houses..

^^

There were a big number of free passes, but that's not the point of discussion. People are ready to come if there are entertained. Even for IPL, there were enough free passes, but that did not help to fill the stadium. You can see the change now.

^^ Bang on Malayalee... People were so f****dup with row between KTK and Corporation and repeated threats from them to move away from Kochi..It was just business for them and there was hardly any passion associated with.:bash:

If Lal/Priyan/Pillai axis had made the IPL team (and Chammany & Co grew a brain between their ears), the place would have been full!! The KTK experiment was so completely half assed (no, quarter assed, in fact) that most fans were pissed off, including myself.

^^

There were so many lobbies to tried to thwart the boost of Kochi. Similar thing happened before this match too. What our mayor replied to it is here:

"The Corporation of Kochi is not even collecting a single rupee as entertainment tax from the Celebrity Cricket League & Mohanlals team Kerala Strikers.The news that Kerala Strikers has decided to migrate from Kochi in next season due to tax problem with the Corporation is absolutely baseless. This was only a wild imagination of the news channels when actor Mohanlal met the Chief Minister for inviting him for Celebrity Cricket League.The news channels were forced to correct their so called 'breaking news' with in hours of realizing their mistake."

Pillai has acted 4 or 5 malayalam movies so far..Bangkok summer, London dreams, Tejabhai,Bombay march etc..
see this

http://www.metromatinee.com/artist/Rajeev%20Govinda%20Pillai-2516

he has also acted in 'Anwar' as a terrorist.

BTW, he was playing like a genuine cricket player. Yesterday during the match Sreesanth told that Rajeev is his distant relative. Also Rajeev, after getting Man of the Match, thanked 'brother' Sreesanth:)

If at all that distant relation exists, it would be better for Rajeev Pillai not to be seen as related to Sreesanth.

Good show by Rajeev, both behind and infront of the wickets.

Anyway now he will get many ‘relatives’.:)

^^To be fair, sreesanth said Rajesh pillai is his cousin before Kerala came out to bat.

^^

Along with the uninterested action by the management, few other factors for KTK failure are;

1) KTK did not had a star player unlike other teams. (The main crowd pullers for KTK were Mahela & McCullum)
2) High ticket rates (no one would want to spend Rs 400 for a gallery seat!)
3) The event was always put on controversy by the management & Cochin corporation, which toned down the interest of the spectators.
4) The huge ground made it feel the crowd was on the lower side!

malayaali, you have summarized it well ...

I think the major reason was the third one, Most of the times it was in news for wrong reasons and fans were definitely pissed off..

^^To be fair, sreesanth said Rajesh pillai is his cousin before Kerala came out to bat.

I know this Rajeev much before he rose to fame. He's equally or more talented than the so called 'brother', and more importantly well mannered in public too :lol:

He's is a top desi male model in India and has immense potential to break big stage.

I watched last half of the match.

Rajeev was as good as a professional player, in fact better than many in IPL. I was under the impression that Bineesh was in for different reasons, but he did quite well (though I didn't watch him bowl)

^^

There were so many lobbies to tried to thwart the boost of Kochi. Similar thing happened before this match too. What our mayor replied to it is here:

"The Corporation of Kochi is not even collecting a single rupee as entertainment tax from the Celebrity Cricket League & Mohanlals team Kerala Strikers.The news that Kerala Strikers has decided to migrate from Kochi in next season due to tax problem with the Corporation is absolutely baseless. This was only a wild imagination of the news channels when actor Mohanlal met the Chief Minister for inviting him for Celebrity Cricket League.The news channels were forced to correct their so called 'breaking news' with in hours of realizing their mistake."

The Mayor is absolutely right!! No tickets were 'sold', so no question of Tax. There was only 'coupons' that could be had after paying Rs 10 as 'donation'.

Only problem was, that arrangement was done after the city demanded 48% tax. Would the Mayor deny that?

Satellite view of Cochin Golf and Country Club (CGCC) Phase I

http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/5925/39486030384280029701331.jpg

A main reason for the ground to be full was because almost all the tickets were free passes which were distributed through fans associations and others.. so lets dont say it was a crowd puller due to the stars..

They didn't even print any numbers in the tickets and those who came in late couldn't get in as the stadium was full even though they had a valid "ticket" with them..

But as always if KTK had got the pricing around 150-200 for gallery we would definitely had packed houses..

They should have done a market study and priced it accordingly.... If Mumbai charges 400 Rs for their stadium, it doesn't mean the same to be done in Kochi..... Kochi has almost double the capacity of Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, so half the rate would mean similar returns.....

The basic problem of KTK, was it was a loose federation, something like Balkan States etc..... A week before auction, Priyan-Lal combines withdrew due to Modi's active tactics and Tharoor stepped into it by forming an association with resources available.... Neither the resource, nor its creator was fully aware of several ground facts.....

Tharoor was planning for an indirect majority stake via Puskar, but it blown out of proportion by Modi, which fuelled for a major aviation fuel leak....

And the flight took off, with such serious issue onboard..... Then came several sparks, each spark damaging the flight one-by-one, below it blew down the flight mid-air.....

I say it should be made as a management case study, how not to form a company with diversified interests and no leadership......

Anyway, there is no point in talking horoscope of a dead baby.... All I can say, its far better for KTK to go, than spoiling whatever name Kochi has.....

^^

Btw, KCA had prepared a wonderful air strip for the flight to land, but is now used by private jets, boats, cars etc :lol:

^^

Btw, KCA had prepared a wonderful air strip for the flight to land, but is now used by private jets, boats, cars etc :lol:

Anyway, an airport is always good.... We can't predict, when our dream flight will come and land!!!!

Stadium construction to start on Jan 23 (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/west-kochi-to-get-a-mini-stadium/220138-60-122.html)

http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/5925/39486030384280029701331.jpg

Great shots from Sunday's Match

CCL-Gallery (http://cclt20.in/gallery.php)

Some CCL pics from JNIS, Kochi on 22/01/2012

http://cclt20.in/images/CCL%202%20Kerala%20Strikers%20vs%20Mumbai%20Heroes%20Match%20Photos/CCL%202%20Kerala%20Strikers%20vs%20Mumbai%20Heroes%20Match%20Photos%20(1).jpg

http://cclt20.in/images/CCL%202%20Kerala%20Strikers%20vs%20Mumbai%20Heroes%20Match%20Photos/CCL%202%20Kerala%20Strikers%20vs%20Mumbai%20Heroes%20Match%20Photos%20(3).jpg

http://cclt20.in/images/CCL%202%20Kerala%20Strikers%20vs%20Mumbai%20Heroes%20Match%20Photos/CCL%202%20Kerala%20Strikers%20vs%20Mumbai%20Heroes%20Match%20Photos%20(6).jpg

http://cclt20.in/images/CCL%202%20Kerala%20Strikers%20vs%20Mumbai%20Heroes%20Match%20Photos/CCL%202%20Kerala%20Strikers%20vs%20Mumbai%20Heroes%20Match%20Photos%20(12).jpg

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http://cclt20.in/images/CCL%202%20Bengal%20Tigers%20vs%20Chennai%20Rhinos%20Match%20Photos/CCL%202%20Bengal%20Tigers%20vs%20Chennai%20Rhinos%20Match%20Photos%20(1).jpg

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http://cclt20.in/images/CCL%202%20Bengal%20Tigers%20vs%20Chennai%20Rhinos%20Match%20Photos/CCL%202%20Bengal%20Tigers%20vs%20Chennai%20Rhinos%20Match%20Photos%20(44).jpg

http://cclt20.in/images/CCL%202%20Bengal%20Tigers%20vs%20Chennai%20Rhinos%20Match%20Photos/CCL%202%20Bengal%20Tigers%20vs%20Chennai%20Rhinos%20Match%20Photos%20(40).jpg

http://cclt20.in/images/CCL%202%20Bengal%20Tigers%20vs%20Chennai%20Rhinos%20Match%20Photos/CCL%202%20Bengal%20Tigers%20vs%20Chennai%20Rhinos%20Match%20Photos%20(13).jpg
pics courtesy: cclt20.in

Thanks Malayali for posting them..There is a video which doing rounds in facebook which shows the noise and buzz when Strikers entered...

MUMBAI: Kochi Tuskers' Indian Premier League (IPL) innings may not be over yet. It is learnt that the sacked franchise has opted to take fresh guard in another desperate bid to save itself by sending the Indian cricket board a notice for arbitration. The BCCI has acknowledged the notice and legal options are once again being considered. "All the co-owners of the Kochi Tuskers' franchise are together on this and looking to save the team," a source in the know of the developments said.

Source: TOI (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/ipl-2012/news/Kochi-Tuskers-send-arbitration-notice-to-BCCI/articleshow/11634001.cms)

^^

I wish the BCCI president give a good slap to each of the owners :lol:

^^

I wish the BCCI president give a good slap to each of the owners :lol:

Avarkku kittiyattunnum pora!!!! What a team is this? Only to spoil our city's name!!!

Kerala Strikers @ Kochi

5cL7Sb1Qm7Y#!

Colonial Hockey League in Kochi (http://www.kochivibe.com/colonial-hockey-league-in-kochi/)


http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/4571/colonialhockeyleague.jpg

Prime Time Events, a leading professional and fully integrated event management company in Kerala, based in Cochin presents before you the Colonial Hockey League which is an event organized by Hockey Kochi,at Parade Ground, Fort Kochi . The event is presented in all its élan, precision and style that are the hallmark of Indian Hockey Team.

Event: Colonial Hockey League 2012

Date : 10th & 11th February, 2012

Venue : Parade Ground, Fort Kochi

Hockey Cochin is an independent sports organization with ideals to revive the spirit of Hockey in Kerala through non-profit means. With the right credentials, an All Kerala Major League was created last year and has made a huge impact by strengthening the awareness & popularity of the game. To maintain the identity in the spirit of sportsmanship, Hockey Cochin once again brings in a Hockey League which promises to be an event of higher impact & magnitude.

Few photos from Kerala strikers Vs Telugu warriors match in Bangalore , stadium was around 25-30 % occupied, around half the crowd of the Tuskers Vs RCB match in Bangalore.

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Few photos from Kerala strikers Vs Telugu warriors match in Bangalore , stadium was around 25-30 % occupied, around half the crowd of the Tuskers Vs RCB match in Bangalore.


Thats quite natural. Today's match didn't involve Karnataka Stars nor atleast more familar Tamil/Bollywood stars to draw more native/local crowd. No fan associations to promote.... Working day for many companies all added to low turnaround.

Kochi's stadium crowd was unbelievable, due to local support to Malayalam stars, fans of bollywood and Chennai stars and migrants supports to Bengali team..... I was more astonished to hear, Naash, the Anchor for CCL's Surya TV Telecast saying that there was 78,000 people in JNI on that day.

Ofcourse it was free, which made a dramatic rise, but otherwise too, a clear marketing and ground support can prove helpful......

Kochi in race when UEFA European Championships come to India for the 1st time! (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/2012-Euro-Football-Chships-Trophy-to-come-to-India/articleshow/11685665.cms) :cheers:

Goosebumps!! After announcement of Barcelona's chances to play in Kochi, here we have world's 2nd biggest football event! Why the hell, we don't have an international football stadium?
Football fans in the country will get to see for the first time the 2012 European Football Championships Trophy as it will come in three cities to be chosen in an online poll.

Three cities out of Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Goa, Kochi and Pune will get a chance to host the coveted trophy.

Top brewery group Carlsberg, the official sponsors of the UEFA European Championships -- the world's second largest football event, will bring the trophy to India.

The tournament will be held for the first time in Eastern Europe -- in Poland and Ukraine -- from June 8 to July 1.

Carlsberg India has kicked off a 'Vote to get the Trophy to your city' campaign, encouraging fans to vote for their city in order that it gets the chance to qualify and host the trophy.

Kochi in race when UEFA European Championships come to India for the 1st time! (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/2012-Euro-Football-Chships-Trophy-to-come-to-India/articleshow/11685665.cms) :cheers:

Goosebumps!! After announcement of Barcelona's chances to play in Kochi, here we have world's 2nd biggest football event! Why the hell, we don't have an international football stadium?


is it Match or just trophy?

is it Match or just trophy?

Still uncertain about Euro championship in India! May be they are planning 3 matches in 3 Indian cities as a promotion.

Still uncertain about Euro championship in India! May be they are planning 3 matches in 3 Indian cities as a promotion.

"Football fans in the country will get to see for the first time the 2012 European Football Championships Trophy as it will come in three cities to be chosen in an online poll".

I guess they are just showcasing the trophy , dont think any matches will be held....

"The tournament will be held for the first time in Eastern Europe -- in Poland and Ukraine -- from June 8 to July 1."

^^

oops! My bad :no:

Kochi in race when UEFA European Championships come to India for the 1st time! (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/2012-Euro-Football-Chships-Trophy-to-come-to-India/articleshow/11685665.cms) :cheers:

Goosebumps!! After announcement of Barcelona's chances to play in Kochi, here we have world's 2nd biggest football event! Why the hell, we don't have an international football stadium?

JNIS is basically an International Football stadium and we all know, it have a history of accommodating more than a Lakh spectators for a major Football match.

Today its caught inbetween Cricket and Football as well as between KCA, KFA and GCDA....

My earlier opinion or belief was best to give JNIS to KCA, while a new soccer stadium to come up.... Now I feel, the best is to hand over JNIS for KFA and make it similar to Salt Lake Stadium of Calcutta, while a new Cricket stadium somewhere too far away from even from proposed enlarged areas of Cochin Corporation, to avoid the politicians muddling into cricket.... The best is to see a Cricket stadium, near Nedumbassery, somewhere with river view..... Atleast the local panchyat is receptive to many new things......

^^

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തൃപ്തിയായി ഗോപിയേട്ടാ...തൃപ്തിയായി :)....we have clinched a remarkable place in the nations sports arena...gr8 going Kochi !

Kochi is an international Melagapolis as some said.. :)

^^

കൊച്ചിയെ പറ്റി പറഞ്ഞോ, Metro, Megapolis എന്നെങ്ങാനും പറഞ്ഞാല്!! :nuts:

India to bid for 2017 U-17 FIFA World Cup (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/India-to-bid-for-2017-U-17-FIFA-World-Cup/articleshow/11692080.cms)

Even though, we Keralites don't feel it, rest of India says JNIS is a world class stadium ;)
Football in India has seen a positive surge in recent months - whether it was Lionel Messi and the La Albiceleste who played an international friendly in Kolkata or the Bayern Munich squad taking part in Bhaichung Bhutia's farewell match in New Delhi early this month. Now with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) deciding to bid for the 2017 U-17 World Cup, the future of the sport is set for a meteoric rise.

Confirming this decision, AIFF vice-president AR Khaleel told TOI that India will be 100% ready in terms of infrastructure and as a host, five years from now. "We have good stadiums in New Delhi, Hyderabad, Pune, Kochi and Kolkata. We also have the Sree Kanteerava Stadium and the Bangalore Football Stadium, the latter being one of India's finest. Five years from now, I am 100% sure we will be ready to host the event. It will be a big fillip for Indian football," Khaleel said.

AIFF general secretary Kushal Das said the bidding documents and hosting agreements have to be prepared and submitted to FIFA within a couple of months. "FIFA's executive committee will meet in Zurich on March 31 and we have to submit our bid in time. By the first week of April, we are sure to know if we have won the bid to host the event," Das told TOI.

Jamaica and Guatemala have also expressed interest as hosts but Das said he was confident India will secure the bid.

The U-17 World Cup, which began in 1985, is a 24-team and 52-match tournament held every two years. The 2013 edition will be hosted by UAE while Chile has been granted the 2015 edition.

^^എല്ലാവരും ഇല്ല. ഒരു ന്യൂനപക്ഷം മാത്രം!!

All Kerala inter-club Golf tournament: Naval Golf Club winners

http://img7.imageshack.us/img7/5925/39486030384280029701331.jpg

Source: Manorama

^^

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Guys, Pls vote for our city...www.facebook.com/carlsberg

Guys, Pls vote for our city...www.facebook.com/carlsberg

Are you sure the link works?

Are you sure the link works?

yea sure...homepage -> drop down menu ->go to -> vote to get the trophy to your city:)

yea sure...homepage -> drop down menu ->go to -> vote to get the trophy to your city:)

Don't know why it ain't working out for me. Returning to my home page!
Blocked in UAE? :nuts:

Don't know why it ain't working out for me. Returning to my home page!
Blocked in UAE? :nuts:

Its not working for me... Tried out a lot!!!!

What is the bigg deal about a 'replica' of a trophy for a championship that we could never participate in? If it was a match, like between the Z team of a club V/S an Indian team, it would make sense. What a humbug!!

And I ain't gonna load any facebook (cr)app to vote either!

^^

No big deal infact.

The punch lies is where an International company like Carlsberg (http://www.carlsberg.com/) considers Kochi among top cosmopolitan hubs of the country along side Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Goa and Pune :cheers:

Mohan Bagan thumps Chirag United Kerala 3-1 in Kochi

http://img571.imageshack.us/img571/5925/39486030384280029701331.jpg

The IPL Hungama to stay on.... (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/ipl-2012/news/If-kept-out-of-IPL-5-we-will-seek-stay-on-the-tournament-Kochi-Tuskers-Kerala/articleshow/11706084.cms)

Cricket suffered a setback in God's Own Country last September when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) sacked the IPL franchise, Kochi Tuskers Kerala, citing "irreparable differences" and leaving the state out of the Twenty20 fold.

However, the Tuskers are still breathing and looking to get back on their feet. They insist that the board has been adequately paid - by way of hefty bank guarantees - and the co-owners are willing to pay for the coming year too. All they want is that the franchise should be reinstated and if not, they are "already seeking legal options".

"If we are kept out of IPL 5, we will go to court and seek a stay on the tournament," says one of the team's co-owners in an email reply to a TOI questionnaire.

On Monday, the beleaguered franchise received a shot in the arm when Kerala chief minister Oommen Chandy stepped forward to lend his support. "I will try my best to retain the Kerala IPL team. I will also talk to the BCCI president and see if the issue can be amicably resolved," Chandy said even as the franchise co-owners spent the last couple of weeks planning their way ahead.:bash::bash:

The co-owners have already sent a notice to the BCCI seeking arbitration, which was reported by TOI last week. However, the board is yet to respond to the notice and the franchise is waiting before asserting its next move.

"At no point we want to be a hindrance for players and their careers. Therefore, we will not do anything that may put the February 4 auction in jeopardy. All we want to say is that the way we've been treated is unfair and the team should be reinstated," says an investor in the franchise.

The co-owners also go on to cite the income that BCCI received by way of having the Kochi Tuskers on board. "Our one year's installment (Rs 156 crore) is equal to what the least costly franchise is scheduled to pay over 10 years. It is equal to the installments of what four to five franchises pay each year," claims the investor.

It is learnt that the chief minister met up with officials of the Rendezvous Sports World (RSW) and assured them his support. "At no point of time have we intended to offend the BCCI. We won the bid fair and square, so the point is why do they want us out?" asks another franchise official.

The franchise makes it very clear that if the BCCI does not allow Kochi Tuskers Kerala to play in IPL 5, then the owners will have no choice than approach the courts and seek a stay on the tournament. The BCCI, which is already neck deep in legal tangles, certainly won't be looking to add another one to the growing list.

The BCCI encashed bank guarantees to the tune of Rs 156 crore after terminating the Kochi contract. The co-owners are willing to deposit the same amount once again before a deadline given by BCCI if they're allowed to play.

I don't understand why Ommen Chandy is chasing behind this idiotic team? Even an average Kochinite feels shame for calling it on behalf of our city name..... It has nothing to do with our city and none of locals do associate with it... Then what makes OC try for inning?

Even if they stay on, what wonder they can do? At this 11th hour, how do they promote the team and create a brand loyalty? Why should we again welcome this and spoil our own name?

It seems, Tuskers are born to end IPL..... But feeling too bad to see a few Gujjus spoiling Kochi's name.....:bash::bash:

തോട്ടം മുടിയാ൯ നേരത്ത് മുച്ചീ൪പ്പ൯ കൊലയ്ക്കും!!

Sell the team to Priyan/Lal/Pillai group, and there may be hope!!

The IPL Hungama to stay on.... (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/ipl-2012/news/If-kept-out-of-IPL-5-we-will-seek-stay-on-the-tournament-Kochi-Tuskers-Kerala/articleshow/11706084.cms)



I don't understand why Ommen Chandy is chasing behind this idiotic team? Even an average Kochinite feels shame for calling it on behalf of our city name..... It has nothing to do with our city and none of locals do associate with it... Then what makes OC try for inning?

Even if they stay on, what wonder they can do? At this 11th hour, how do they promote the team and create a brand loyalty? Why should we again welcome this and spoil our own name?

It seems, Tuskers are born to end IPL..... But feeling too bad to see a few Gujjus spoiling Kochi's name.....:bash::bash:

It is easy criticise the investors ...you are not paying any single buck nah...:nuts:
Any investors, when their stake is high but limited control over his investment will act the same. just imagine and try to be in their shoes! They have at least brought a team here and materialsed their plans in atmost unfavorable and turbulent times, when nobody could have imagine one in kerala. If Priyan & Co could do it; why they have not done it earlier? Unlike CCL, organising and maintaining an IPL team is a different ball game and requires lot of professionalism and approach...RSW were better prepared on their mission, showed their proposition, competencies and capabilities and won a highly competitive bid for an expensive team. And surely made a descent team of cricketers. They were all not outstanding but surely formidable players...just check current indian ODI/T20 team, at least 4, 5 players made their entry into the national squad....give them a second chance...they will come out with fying colors !
തീയില്* കുരുത്തത് വെയിലത്ത്* വാടില്ല എന്നാണ് ചൊല്ല് !
This city deserves a professional sports team...that place is void after the exit of FC Cochin...and people will look forward to it. Lets wait and see :cheers:

^^

It wasn't now, the time to respond by the owners of KTK after schedule of IPL 5 got released. There were numerous reports in the media and monitory statements from the IPL body, to keep up with the time for payment. They weren't even responding to that, AFAIK.

I feel some prominent "Mallus" are ready to stake in the team for a bigger price and that might be the reason why the Gujju's are speaking something now!

It is easy criticise the investors ...you are not paying any single buck nah...:nuts:
Any investors, when their stake is high but limited control over his investment will act the same. just imagine and try to be in their shoes! They have at least brought a team here and materialsed their plans in atmost unfavorable and turbulent times, when nobody could not even dream about forming one in kerala. If Priyan & Co could have form an IPL team for KL why they have not done it earlier? Unlike CCL, organising and maintaining an IPL team is a different ball game and requires lot of professionalism and approach...RSW were better prepared for their mission, showed their proposition, competencies and capabilities and won a highly competitive bid for an expensive team. And surely made a descent team of cricketers. They were all not outstanding but surely formidable players...just check current indian ODI/T20 team, at least 4, 5 players made their entry into the national squad....give them a second chance...they will come out with fying colors !
തീയില്* കുരുത്തത് വെയിലത്ത്* വാടില്ല എന്നാണ് ചൊല്ല് !
This city deserves a professional sports team...that place is void after the exit of FC Cochin...and people will look forward to it. Lets wait and see :cheers:

See Inducreeds.... Nobody is against having a cricket team for Kochi city, representing Kerala. But I personally feel shameful, dragging this controversy, spoiling the name of the city in very bad way before national media.... The city isn't involved. The actions of few investors, who have no professionalism created all the issues, while the city's name is getting trashed....

Anyother team would have better known by its parent company. When Rajasthan Royals or Punjab Kings controversy came, it would be affecting only parent brands/celebrities like Wadia group or Shilpa Shetty etc, not the city... Here, constantly our city is being projected in all controversial limelight for no reason of its own... We never hear national media saying KTK or RSW, rather keep on projecting it as IPL Kochi Team or Kochi etc.....

The basic mistakes was from Investors? What Kochi as a city have done wrong to the team? We provided the stadium, KCA did all possible they can... For last 2 days, the crowd was one the highest for IPL, without any kind of brand publicity or brand loyalty programs.... Every Kochinite and Keralite promoted the team in their maximum possible way, be it facebook or twitter etc.... So who was in fault? Kochi city or RSW owners?

I would definitely say, the infighting and lack of professional/corporate approach lead to the crisis of the team, but its the city that bearing the blunt..... We all know, our city corporation even accomodates more bigger things, if money is thrown at their asses.... Its not any big crime to say... Every event management team is doing the same.... They pay the nessecary hidden kolis to the bureaucrats and keep no issues....

Instead the entire ticket issue was blown out of proportion.... Cochin Corporation, even reduced half of the taxes.... Yet we still have reasons to blame Mayor..... But who blew the whistles to media? It was none other than RSW, so that they want some noise to move to Ahmedabad..... How can Kochi be blamed for it....

The city has hosted several ODIs and Test Cricket, yet for RSW they say JNIS is surrounded by malls and shops and is not at all safe to play cricket... Despite of providing a good stadium, in heart of the city, for least cost, they have shown ingratitude to Keralites for their hidden interests to move to Ahmedabad....

And why didn't they pay the fees despite of last day? And why they are making noise just a week before the auction? Again and again, the investors are showing, they are big nuisance to BCCI and IPL.... Where were they for all these 6 months?

I have no objections, if they play all these nuisances under banner RSW.... But everywhere its Kochi being projected.... In cyberworld, the city brand Kochi is getting mocked for no reason of its.... And again if they somehow survive, they will raise back their demand for Ahmedabad.... Why should Kochi suffer all mockery and Ahmedabad gaining its benefits?

I hope you understood the reason..... Priyan and Lal who have done this, if Lalit Modi haven't played the cards.... He was busy tackling to keep Priyan and Lal combines out to get Ahmedabad.... Unforunately he missed the secret hush-hush formation of an investor team by Tharoor.... And that blew both his head and Tharoor's head as well as Kochi's asses.....

Excerpts from KCA Secretary, TC Mathews interview in Seasonal Magazine


What is the status of the Edakochi Stadium project now?

As you know, as things stand now, it needs an Environmental Clearance from the Centre. It is unfortunate, but that is the way things are in our state. There was the widest possible consensus regarding the selection of the site and the project’s initial steps from all authorities and democratic bodies, but a few people could still play mischief by raising wild allegations against us and the project. But we are so determined about the project, and have done so much hard work for it, that we won’t abandon it ever. But our current priority is to develop the stadiums in other districts before we re-visit this project again. The Edakochi site was not a marsh land ever, as Jayesh George would show you now in Google Earth. You should remember that this issue is being raked up, even while acres of marsh land are being freely converted into commercial development in this very district. We will fight it out.


How far did the stadium plans proceed before the bar from environment ministry came?

We had brought in Sir Michael Hopkins, one of the this globe’s most renowned architects and stadium specialists for this project. After visiting the Edakochi site and reviewing our rough plans, Sir Hopkins had remarked that this holds the potential to be world’s finest stadium. Coming from a celebrated professional who designed the London Olympics Velodrome (2012), not to mention cricket stadiums like Mound Stand at Lords, Hampshire Country Cricket Club, Chepauk Cricket Stadium, MCA Pune International Cricket Centre & Stadium etc, this was real appreciation. Such is the scenic possibilities of the land and our plans. Personally speaking, I used to note down the best innovative stadium features from wherever I travel, and I was instrumental in suggesting the A/c-non-A/c concept when a couple of stadiums were refurbished. Anyway, we are waiting for the environmental issues to resolve before going full-steam ahead.


Will you ever see the Kochi IPL team being revived? Do you think KCA could do its best to assist them?

As you know, the future of Kochi Tuskers will be decided as per the arbitration going on. Let us hope the Tuskers can be revived. Whether we will have another team is a distant possibility as of now. The main problem is funding, as the break-even for this huge investment can be more than four years. We don’t have such industrialist sponsors here. The last experiment was basically by a group of Gujarati businessmen, and they themselves lacked a cohesion to persist. They were not very committed to Kerala too. Though we did our best to assist them, there was obviously limits to our help, especially when they weren’t communicating properly their issues. Compared to Kerala, a metro like Mumbai, Chennai, or Bangalore is much more capable of making an IPL team viable. But we can’t overrule the possibility absolutely. Kerala Cricket Association will definitely do its part if any sponsor comes forward.

Read the full interview at : http://www.seasonalmagazine.com/2012/02/kcas-achievements-are-enough-to-silence.html

^^

It wasn't now, the time to respond by the owners of KTK after schedule of IPL 5 got released. There were numerous reports in the media and monitory statements from the IPL body, to keep up with the time for payment. They weren't even responding to that, AFAIK.

I feel some prominent "Mallus" are ready to stake in the team for a bigger price and that might be the reason why the Gujju's are speaking something now!

It now seems, this action is not to save the team, but to get back the money.... The time chosen to do something, also indicates this.... They are least interested, whether their old team members will be auctioned or not... They want money back and label it as saving the team for Kerala to get high profile help from Kerala CM and others...... Once they get back, they will clean their hands and go out..... Why again we should trust these traitors?

, the owners of Kochi Tuskers Kerala have accepted what they call the wrongful termination of their Indian Premier League (IPL) team but vowed to continue their legal battle, claiming that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had committed a ‘repudiatory breach of franchise agreement’.

With the BCCI set to dismantle the side through the scheduled auction on Saturday, the owners seem to have reconciled themselves to the futility of fighting to restore the team, but they have taken recourse to the law to demand the return of their money.

“It’s disappointing to be giving up a side we wanted to run with passion, but we have lost the will to keep it in the face of harassment from the BCCI,” said Mukesh Patel, one of the owners. “We have invested a lot of money and got poor treatment in return.”

According to Patel, in one year the team paid close to Rs340 crore, the equivalent of the total franchise fee of a couple other sides to be paid over a period of 10 years. Now that the team has been “wrongfully” terminated, the money should be returned, he said. “We have outlined this clearly in our arbitration notice,” he revealed.

The BCCI encashed a bank guarantee for Rs156 crore, which was over and above the Rs170 crore (including service tax) paid by the Kochi owners as franchise fee. “IPL officials said they would take care of the players’ fees from the BG, but now they have asked the players to sue the team,” Patel pointed out.

The BCCI had terminated the contract saying Kochi had not produced the bank guarantee for the second year in time. It also encashed the earlier bank guarantee. But Patel claimed they were not given enough time. “We were told on a Saturday morning to submit the BG and on Monday morning at 7:40 we were served the termination notice. It is amply evident that the termination was pre-meditated and mala fide.”

Patel said the owners also gave up the team because of the BCCI’s refusal to provide the world-class stadium that had been promised. “We had trouble hosting matches in a multi-purpose stadium,” he said.

The arbitration notice was served on the BCCI on January 18. The board has a month to reply. “We are hoping for a quick process unlike in the case of Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab,” Patel said.

http://www.dnaindia.com/sport/report_kochi-tuskers-accept-termination-want-money-back_1644898

Thank god!!! EE Bada onnu ozhinnu poyi kittullo!!!!

The name of the game is golf (http://www.deccanchronicle.com/tabloid/kochi/name-game-golf-027)
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Neethu Chacko, Abbas Khan and Jessina Harris; (below) Khetrapal at the CIAL Golf and Country Club

The weekend options for Kochiites are no longer limited to visiting a restaurant or multiplex. A round of golf is the latest and perhaps the ultimate way to unwind.

Drop in at the year-old CIAL Golf and Country Club on a weekend and you will be stumped by a number of them teeing off in style. “The game is picking up like never before,” says Major General Jacob Koshy (AVSM), who eats, drinks and breathes golf.

The 130-acre expanse of greenery adjacent to the airport is not only attracting local golfers but also curious tourists. Recently, a bunch of Japanese tourists came to play a game or two before boarding their return flight. “The club is accessible to all and only the members have to pay a higher fee,” says Jacob, the first president of The Kerala Golf Association.

It is not just men who are smitten by the game. Letha Sushil, wife of Vice Admiral K.N. Sushil, who started off on golf with her husband a year back, feels golfing is the best way to beat stress. Claiming to be a better golfer than her husband, Letha says she can’t do without a daily dose of golf. “My only regret is that I didn’t take it up earlier,” says Letha, who won the Le Meridien tourney early this year.

Equally excited is Sharan Somanna, a golfer for four years. “It was thought to be a rich man’s game with golf kits costing anything between Rs 45,000 to a lakh. Now a decent kit is available at Rs 16,000. This has given the sport a boost,” says the senior manager with Kannan Devan Hills Plantations (KDHP) in Munnar. Sharan and his friends frequent the scenic golf course at the High Range Club. “If cricket stole my heart as a youngster, golf is my new-found joy,” says Chacko, general manager at KDHP. “It’s actually a game that you play with yourself.”

Abbas Khan points out that while it calls for patience and concentration, it is far from a pastime of the oldies. “It has changed my outlook to life and the way I view success,” gushes Jessina Harris.

http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/562/6743617297cd5644f360b.jpg

All rights reserved by PAI™

^^ Superb Pic..:):)

^^ Superb Pic..:):)

+1

Here's another JNIS pic

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/200053_212221495471384_126610590699142_856985_1536858_n.jpg
Courtesy: Gulfu Photography

Power Boat Rally in Kochi (http://www.kochivibe.com/power-boat-rally-in-kochi/)

Power boat rally held in Kochi backwaters (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-kerala/article2864511.ece)
http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/5925/39486030384280029701331.jpg

A team led by Lieutenant Colonel S. S. Siwatch of EME Sailing Association, Hyderabad and P. R. G. Raju of PLRC, Hyderabad bagged the honours in the boats above 100 HP category in the Power Boat Rally 2012 organised here on Sunday by the Offshore Sailing Association in collaboration with the Southern Naval Command and the Yachting Association of India.

The rally created a big wave of enthusiasm with participation from all over Kerala and from Hyderabad.

The power boat rally was conducted in two categories: under 100 HP and above 100 HP and was held over a 50-km stretch in the backwaters around Kochi.

Captain Deepak Bhatia and Manisha Bhatia won the below 100 HP category in the rally, sponsored by Air Arabia and Volvo Penta, said a press release from the Naval Base here.

The rally was flagged off by Vice Admiral K. N. Sushil.

^^

http://img138.imageshack.us/img138/5925/39486030384280029701331.jpg

Prime Time Colonial Hockey League (http://www.thehindu.com/sport/hockey/article2869318.ece)
It's a sport that is said to be our national game but hockey is fast going down the popularity chart all over the country. The infighting in the association, both at the national and State level, has left players confused and very few children are keen on taking up the game these days in Kerala.

But a group of former hockey players, under the banner of Hockey Cochin, along with the event-management company Prime Time Events have come together to conduct a tournament that promises to bring the glamour back to the sport and raise its noise level.

The Prime Time Colonial Hockey League will be held at the Parade Ground in Fort Kochi on February 10 and 11. The CHL logo and mascot, Dolphie the dolphin, were launched at the Grand Hotel here.

LIVE BANDS

Conceived by Prime Time Events, the five-a-side tournament will have live bands performing during breaks, cheer girls and a food festival too to draw a crowd. A DJ and an MC will also be in action to pump up the crowd.

“We want to give a different feel to hockey, this will be a new experience for the people coming in,” said M. Ayoobi, the Managing Director of Prime Time Events.

“Twelve teams, including Chennai's Income Tax and Halls HC, Kollam's SAI and Travancore Cobras from Thiruvananthapuram, will be seen in action and most of the matches will be played under lights,” said C. Jojo, the President of Hockey Cochin.

The CHL, despite its name, will however be a knockout event with 20-minute matches that promise to produce fast-paced action.

K.V. Thomas, the Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs and Food, will inaugurate the two-day tournament on Friday evening and Dominic Presentation, MLA, will give away the prizes on Saturday night.

So another likely listing of Kochi into a major sporting league, the P1 Powerboat League:banana::cheers:

There is yet another ambitious sports series hoping to follow in the footsteps of the successful Indian Premier League. The organisers of the P1 Powerboat World Championship are set to unveil a six-team series near Mumbai’s iconic India Gate in a couple of months. Talks are already on for selling the franchisees to the Indian business czars and bollywood stars.
United Breweries’ poster boy Siddhartha Mallya has reportedly shown interest in buying a team after meeting with P1 Powerboat chairman Asif Rangoonwala, also known as the Bernie Ecclestone of water sport. Actor Sunil Shetty, a big fan of water sport, is also believed to be a potential franchisee owner. Mumbai’s sports management company Procam International is likely to be the local promoters.

The name of the series is P1 Superstock India and it will feature six teams - Mumbai, Kochi, Goa, Chennai, Vizag and Kolkata — in the inaugural edition that is likely to take place in October later this year.

It will not be Mumbai’s first tryst with Powerboats as the city had successfully hosted the F1 Powerboat World Championship race in March, 2004.

The organisers have already sought clearance from Western Naval Command base to conduct the event at the coast of Marine drive.

As man and machine gear up against one of nature’s most testing elements, the sea, P1 Powerboat is considered the third pillar of motorsport alongside four and two-wheel racing. P1 Powerboat is the world’s fastest-growing marine motorsport series and has eight years’ experience in delivering more than 85 world championship races in 12 different countries.

http://www.asianage.com/other-sports/p1-powerboat-set-launch-ipl-style-series-india-499

Kochi to host Under 17 Football World Cup in 2017 (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/Kerala-welcomes-AIFFs-bid-for-under-17-World-Cup/articleshow/11901995.cms)
Kerala Government on Wednesday welcomed All India Football Federation's move to bid for the under-17 World Cup in 2017.

Kerala was keen to be made one of the venues if AIFF succeeded in its attempt to host such the prestigious event, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy told reporters.

A meeting of the state cabinet also decided to extend full support to the efforts of Kerala Football Association (KFA) in this regard.

The Government also wanted KFA and Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) to draw plans for preparing stadia in the state in anticipation of the event, Chandy said.

A step forward from Goal 2012 to Jr World Cup (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/a-step-forward-from-goal-2012-to-jr-world-cup/230711-60-122.html)
When Chief Minister Oommen Chandy announced in the cabinet briefing on Wednesday that the government had given the nod for Kerala Football Association’s effort to host the 2017 Under-17 World Cup matches, he was taking forward an idea first proposed on February 10 during the valedictory function of ‘Goal 2012’ inter-collegiate football tournament organised by The New Indian Express.
Paving the way to end Kerala’s woes on the football field, the cabinet meeting approved the KFA’s proposal to enlist a city in the state as one of the host venues for football’s showpiece event at the junior level five years hence, should it be allotted to India.
“The cabinet has decided to extend full support to the Kerala Football Association’s bid to host the 2017 FIFA Under-17 World Cup matches in Kerala,’’ said Oommen Chandy.
The KFA had submitted a representation to the CM seeking the government’s support to its proposal to strive for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup matches during the valedictory function of ‘Goal 2012’ at Hotel Casino in Kochi.
“This is a big decision by the Chief Minister. It will definitely pave the way for the development of football infrastructure in Kerala,’’ KFA president K M I Mather told Express.
“More than the World Cup coming to Kerala, the most important thing is that football will come back into the limelight. It now becomes imperative that the government installs good facilities for the sport. We had submitted the proposal during the valedictory function of ‘Goal 2012.’ Express initiative to promote football has definitely helped in speeding up the government decision,” he said.
At the function, the CM had promised to take all measures to revive football in the state.
The football fraternity sees Wednesday’s announcement as a commitment by the state govt to build up basic infrastructure and rejuvenate the scene in a state which once dominated domestic football like no other.
KFA secretary P Anil Kumar, himself a former Santosh Trophy player and qualified coach, said that the decision would help the association prepare strong bid documents with agreement letters from the Greater Cochin Development Authority and the Kochi Corporation, which between them owns the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium and the Ambedkar Stadium, pointing out Kerala’s potential to hold world class matches.
‘’The KFA will forward the proposal to the All-India Football Federation before March 5. The AIFF is expected to submit India’s bid
to FIFA by March 15,” he said.
FIFA president Joseph Blatter is scheduled to visit India next month to ascertain its preparedness to host such a prestigious event.
The host nation of the 2017 FIFA under-17 World Cup is expected to be announced in April.

A new STADIUM has to build .Present Ambedkar stadium will be in the CBD area ; once Metro is implemented . An international STADIUM can not be in the vicinity of CBD . Coz there should be enough PARKING facilities .least congested WIDE roads etc .
Anyway , as our Mayor proposed , there is a necessity of an EXCLUSIVE STADIUM for the purpose .
J N I stadium at Kaloor is built for a multipurpose facilities .

Yes, to some extend its a major issue. Ambedkar stadium is located inside the city center, surrounded by several bldgs and narrow roads. During time of Metro works, the road will be heavily congested. In addition, KSRTC is no mood to move out from there. The Minister is keen to see KSRTC still remains inside the city with own terminus instead of VMH. So can expect its works going to happen.

In such a situation, no matter, how big the stadium is, parking will be a major issue as well as effective reaching there.

However along with disadvantage, the key advantages are, its located inside the city core. If KSRTC remains there with new terminus, the stadium is likely to have a transport hub nearby. Metro access is there.

But lack of wide roads towards the stadium and only one proper exit remains, is a key issue.

I feel, the best place to consider a new stadium should be in Aluva, where FACT have few large tracts of land. Aluva has several football clubs, the second in number after Fort Kochi and easily accessible from other parts of state. Secondly its always better to keep these things out of Corporation limits, as always its ruled by idiots who are guided by pure vested interests, unlike smaller Municipalities and panchyats.

Ambedkar stadium can be renovated as a foot ball stadium, for practices and few tournaments.

International Football Academy coming up in Kothamangalam

Project named "Bucephalus International School" to have Ground, Gymnesium & hostel facilities for 60 students.

The ground is undergoing construction. Academy to start by July.

കോതമംഗലത്ത് അന്താരാഷ്ട്ര ഫുട്ബാള് സ്കൂള് വരുന്നു (http://www.madhyamam.com/news/153447/120222)

കൊച്ചി: പുതുതലമുറക്ക് ശാസ്ത്രീയ പരിശീലനം നല്കാന് അന്താരാഷ്ട്ര നിലവാരത്തില് ഫുട്ബാളിന് മാത്രമായി സ്കൂള് വരുന്നു. കോതമംഗലത്ത് ബ്യൂസിഫാലസ് ഇന്റര്നാഷനല് സ്കൂള് എന്ന പേരിലാണ് സ്കൂള് തുറക്കുന്നത്. സ്വന്തമായി ഗ്രൗണ്ട്, ഹോസ്റ്റല്, പ്രത്യേകം തയാറാക്കിയ ജിംനേഷ്യം എന്നിവ ഉള്പ്പെടുന്ന സ്കൂള് ജൂലൈയോടെ പ്രവര്ത്തനമാരംഭിക്കും. 10മുതല് 14വയസ്സുവരെയുള്ള 60 പേര്ക്കാണ് പ്രവേശം. അക്കാദമിയുടെ ഗ്രൗണ്ട് നിര്മാണം പുരോഗമിക്കുകയാണെന്ന് ഡയറക്ടര്മാര് വാര്ത്താസമ്മേളനത്തില് പറഞ്ഞു.
ഇന്ത്യയില് അടുത്ത വര്ഷങ്ങളില് ഫുട്ബാളിന് വന് വളര്ച്ചയുണ്ടാകുമെന്നും ഇത് മുതലെടുക്കാന് ലക്ഷ്യമിട്ടാണ് ഇത്തരമൊരു സംരംഭമെന്നും ഇവര് പറഞ്ഞു. കുട്ടികള്ക്കു പുറമെ മുതിര്ന്നവര്ക്കും ഇവിടെ പരിശീലന സൗകര്യം ഒരുക്കും.

ഇന്ത്യയിലെ പരിശീലകരെ കൂടാതെ വിദേശ പരിശീലകരും സ്കൂളിലെത്തും. ആറ് കോടിയോളം ചെലവിലാണ് സംരംഭമെന്നും ഇവര് പറഞ്ഞു. സെലക്ഷന് ട്രയല്സില് പങ്കെടുത്ത് വിജയികളാകുന്നവര്ക്ക് താമസമുള്പ്പെടെ സൗകര്യം സ്കൂളിന്റെ ചെലവില് ഒരുക്കും. ഭക്ഷണച്ചെലവ് കുട്ടികള് വഹിക്കേണ്ടിവരും. സംസ്ഥാനത്തെ എല്ലാ ജില്ലകളിലും ഏപ്രില്, മേയ് മാസങ്ങളില് നടത്തുന്ന സെലക്ഷന് ട്രയല്സിലൂടെയാകും ഭാവി താരങ്ങളെ കണ്ടെത്തുക. തൃശൂരില് ട്രയല്സ് കഴിഞ്ഞതായും ഇവര് പറഞ്ഞു. ഇംഗ്ളീഷ് ഫുട്ബാള് അസോസിയേഷന്റെ പരിശീലനം നേടിയ എല്ദോ ഏലിയാസ് സ്കൂളിന്റെ മുഖ്യപരിശീലകനാകും. സീനിയേഴ്സിന് പരിശീലനം നല്കാന് സെപ്റ്റംബറോടെ വിദേശകോച്ചിനെ സ്കൂളിലെത്തിക്കും.
വിദേശ ഫുട്ബാള് അക്കാദമികളില് പരിശീലിപ്പിക്കുന്ന രീതിയിലാകും ഇവിടെ ക്ളാസുകള്. എല്ദോ ഏലിയാസടക്കം കോതമംഗലം സ്വദേശികളായ ആറോളം പേര് ചേര്ന്ന ഡയറക്ടര് ബോര്ഡിനാണ് സ്കൂളിന്റെ നിയന്ത്രണം.

The new international soccer stadium may be located somewhere with proximity to METRO and NH access . Otherwise it will result in another JNIS in terms of vehicular connectivity to and from the stadium . Especially when Cochin is the fastest growing TIER 2 city in India.

I feel, Aluva is the best place to have Soccer International Stadium. The prime reasons are because

1. Aluva has a very large number of local foot ball clubs and many more are coming up in the region. It ensures regular patronage

2. Its better to have stadium outside Corporation limits, to avoid moroons of Corporation meddling their noses into it and creating issues

3. Aluva is strategically located. It will have Metro connectivity, NH connectivity and soon ferry connectivity. Airport is too more closer by.

4. Aluva is definitely the second largest constituent of Greater Cochin and hence deserves more world class projects like this

5. A National level football academy, sports hostel, practice grounds, gym and other facilities, will develop more talents for this highly popular game. Since there are more larger tracts of land near here, its prefectly possible to consider Aluva than city core

Kochi part of Indian National Autocross Championship (http://www.deccanherald.com/content/232555/autocross-series-unveiled.html)
Bengaluru: The Federation of Motor Sports Clubs in India, in association with sports promoter Wynnsport, unveiled the Indian National Autocross Championship here on Tuesday.

According to the proposed calendar, the championship will kick off in Bangalore in April and then move to Kochi, Coimbatore, Chennai and Mumbai before returning to Bangalore for the finale in December.

Tracks and race categories have not yet been finalised yet, but the organisers said the championship will follow International Motor Sport Federation’s (FIA) regulations.

“This is one of the most interesting championships on the calendar,” said newly-appointed FMSCI vice-president Bharath Raj at a press conference. “I am sure it will be received well by motor sport enthusiasts around the country, especially since autocross gives drivers a great foundation.”

Unlike in most local championships, safety will be high on the priority list in this championship, and it will also feature a two-lane track, which means two cars will be sent out simultaneously to cover the course distance (anything between 800 metres to 1.2 km).

“Top drivers and teams have shown interest in the championship already,” said Wynnsport chief executive Balakrishna Jayasimha.

Proposed calendar: April 28-29: Bangalore; May 26-27: Kochi; July 14-15: Coimbatore; September 15-16: Chennai; November 3-4: Mumbai; December 8-9: Bangalore.

Sports coaching camps to kick-start soon (http://http://expressbuzz.com/cities/kochi/Sports-coaching-camps-to-kick-start-soon/371931.html)

The Regional Sports Centre’s summer coaching camps, in various indoor and outdoor disciplines, is slated to be held from April 2 to May 19.
The Regional Sports Centre (RSC), which has been organizing summer vacation camps for more than 2500 children every year for nearly a decade, will provide training in 27 events this year for children in the age-group of 7-15.

The disciplines include athletics, aerobics, basketball, billiards and snooker, cricket, chess, football, fencing, karate, kalari, kung-fu, magic, power-lifting and power training, shooting, scrabble/checkers/dart, skating, badminton, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, tennis, volleyball, yoga, slim yoga, piano, creativity and free-style Bollywood hop.

In addition to 20 regular coaches who serve the RSC round the year, 35 additional coaches, with the support of the Kerala State Sports Council, will be pressed into service with over 3000 children expected to participate this year, said the RSC authorities.

The RSC will also be providing free training to talented children belonging to the low-income group subject to a recommendation letter from their respective educational institutions or a sanction letter from the district sports council to this effect. Prior registration is compulsory for attending the camp and the last date of registration is May 31.The RSC-Mahesh Bhupathi Tennis Academy will be imparting special coaching in tennis for the advanced category while cricket coaching will be provided by SG Cricket Schools.

The Medical Trust Hospital Sports Medicine Department will provide round the clock medical support. Sports Minister K B Ganesh Kumar is scheduled to inaugurate the camp while Chief Minister Oommen Chandy will be the Chief Guest for the valedictory function.

During the closing function, eligible players from the financially weaker sections of society, especially from Wayanad and Idukki districts, will also be provided with free kitting

Bright prospects for Barcelona's match in Kochi :)

മെസ്സി കൊച്ചിയില് കളിക്കുമോ? വെള്ളിയാഴ്ച അറിയാം (http://www.mathrubhumi.com/sports/story.php?id=258354)
ലയണല് മെസ്സിയും സാവിയും ആന്ദ്രെ ഇനിയേസ്റ്റയുമടങ്ങുന്ന സ്വപ്നസംഘം നമ്മുടെ കൊച്ചിയില് കളിക്കാനെത്തുമോ? കേരളത്തിലെ ഫുട്ബോള് പ്രേമികള് ആകാംഷയോടെ കാത്തിരിക്കുന്ന മത്സരത്തിന്റെ ഭാവി വെള്ളിയാഴ്ച അറിയാം. ലോക ഫുട്ബോളിലെ ഏറ്റവും മികച്ച ടീമായ ബാഴ്സലോണ കൊച്ചിയില് കളിക്കുമോയെന്ന കാര്യത്തില് വെള്ളിയാഴ്ച തീരുമാനമാകും. കെ.എഫ്.എ.യും ഇവന്റ് മാനേജ്മെന്റ് ഗ്രൂപ്പും തമ്മില് നടക്കുന്ന അവസാനവട്ട ചര്ച്ചകളില് കാര്യങ്ങള് അനുകൂലമായാല് കേരളത്തിലെ ഫുട്ബോള് പ്രേമികള്ക്ക് ലോക ഫുട്ബോളര് മെസി അടക്കമുള്ള സൂപ്പര് ടീമിന്റെ കളി കാണാന് കഴിയും.

ഇന്ത്യന് ഫുട്ബോള് എവല്യൂഷന് ഗ്രൂപ്പാണ് ഇന്ത്യയിലെ ബാഴ്സയുടെ പര്യടനം സംഘടിപ്പിക്കുന്നത്. ഇന്ത്യയില് രണ്ട് നഗരങ്ങളില് മത്സരം നടത്താനാണ് ബാഴ്സ മാനേജ്മെന്റിനും താത്പര്യം. മുംബൈ, ബാംഗ്ലൂര്, കൊച്ചി. കൊല്ക്കത്ത നഗരങ്ങളാണ് പരിഗണിക്കപ്പെടുന്നത്. മത്സരം നടത്താനുള്ള ചെലവ്, പ്രതീക്ഷിക്കുന്ന വരുമാനം, കാണികള്, സ്റ്റേഡിയത്തിന്റെ നിലവാരം എന്നിവ സംബന്ധിച്ച് എവല്യൂഷന് ഗ്രൂപ്പ് ഇതിനകം പഠനം നടത്തിക്കഴിഞ്ഞിട്ടുണ്ട്. ഇതിന്റെ അടിസ്ഥാനത്തിലാണ് വെള്ളിയാഴ്ച കേരള ഫുട്ബോള് അസോസിയേഷന് അധികൃതരുമായി ചര്ച്ച നടത്തുന്നത്.

മെയ്, ജൂണ് മാസങ്ങളിലാണ് ബാഴ്സ ഏഷ്യന് പര്യടനം നടത്തുന്നത്. ഫുട്ബോളില് ഇന്ത്യയുടെ വാണിജ്യ പങ്കാളിത്തം വളര്ന്നുവരുന്ന സാഹചര്യത്തിലാണ് ബാഴ്സ ഇന്ത്യയിലേക്ക് വരാന് താത്പര്യം കാണിക്കുന്നത്. യൂറോപ്യന് ഫുട്ബോള് ലീഗുകളുടെ റേറ്റിങ് ഇന്ത്യയില് ഉയര്ന്നു വരുന്നതും, ആരാധകരുടെ എണ്ണത്തില് വന് വര്ധനയുണ്ടായതും ബാഴ്സയുടെ വരവിനുള്ള അനുകൂലഘടകങ്ങളാണ്.

40 കോടിയാണ് ബാഴ്സയുടെ രണ്ട് കളികള്ക്കായി മുടക്കേണ്ടി വരുന്നത്. മുതല് മുടക്ക് തിരിച്ചു പിടിക്കാന് കഴിയുമോയെന്ന കാര്യത്തിലും ഇവന്റ് മാനേജ്മെന്റ് ഗ്രൂപ്പ് പഠനം നടത്തിയിട്ടുണ്ട്. മെസ്സി, ഫാബ്രിഗസ്, സാവി, ഇനിയേസ്റ്റ, എന്നിവരടങ്ങുന്ന ബാഴ്സ കളിച്ചാല് കൊച്ചിയിലെ സ്റ്റേഡിയം നിറയുമെന്ന കാര്യത്തില് സംഘാടകര്ക്ക് തര്ക്കമില്ല. എന്നാല്, സ്പോണ്സര്ഷിപ്പുകള് സംബന്ധിച്ചാണ് ആശങ്കയുള്ളത്.

കൊച്ചിയില് മത്സരം നടക്കില്ലെന്ന സ്ഥിതിയില് നിന്ന് കാര്യങ്ങള് ഏറെ മുന്നോട്ടു പോയിട്ടുണ്ട്. ബാഴ്സയ്ക്കെതിരെ കളിക്കേണ്ട ടീമിനെക്കുറിച്ചുള്ള അനിശ്ചിതത്വം നിലനില്ക്കുന്നുണ്ട്. എ.സി.മിലാനെ കൊണ്ടുവരാന് പദ്ധതിയുണ്ടായിരുന്നെങ്കിലും ഉപേക്ഷിച്ച മട്ടാണ്. ഇന്ത്യന് ഇലവനേയോ, ഏഷ്യന് ക്ലബ്ബുകളെയോ പരിഗണിക്കേണ്ടി വരും.

2017-ലെ ലോകകപ്പ് ഇന്ത്യയ്ക്ക് ലഭിച്ചാല്, വേദിയാകേണ്ട കൊച്ചിയില് അതിനു മുമ്പ് വന് മത്സരം നടത്തുന്നത് ഗുണകരമാകുമെന്ന ആലോചനയും കെ.എഫ്.എ.യ്ക്കുണ്ട്. ബാഴ്സയുടെ പര്യടന സമയം മഴക്കാലത്തായതിനാല് പരാജയമാകുമോയെന്ന ആശങ്കയും നിലനില്ക്കുന്നുണ്ട്.

കൊച്ചിയും മുംബൈയുമാണ് വേദിയായി സംഘാടകര് പ്രധാനമായും പരിഗണിക്കുന്നത്. മത്സരം നടത്താന് സന്നദ്ധമാണെന്ന് മുംബൈ അസോസിയേഷന് വ്യക്തമാക്കിയിട്ടുണ്ട്. ഇന്ത്യയില് പര്യടനം നടത്തുമെന്ന് ബാഴ്സയും വ്യക്തമാക്കുന്നു. കൊല്ക്കത്തയില് ഈസ്റ്റ് ബംഗാളുമായി കളിക്കാന് താത്പര്യമുണ്ടെന്ന് ബാഴ്സ അറിയിച്ചിട്ടുണ്ട്.

മെസ്സി നായകനായി അര്ജന്റീനയും വെനസ്വേലയും തമ്മിലുള്ള സൗഹൃദമത്സരത്തിന്റെ വന് വിജയമാണ് ബാഴ്സയെ കൊല്ക്കത്തയില് കളിക്കാന് പ്രേരിപ്പിക്കുന്നത്. ബാഴ്സയ്ക്കുള്ള പ്രതിഫലമടക്കം മത്സരം നടത്താന് 20 കോടി ചെലവുവരുമെന്നതാണ് ഈസ്റ്റ് ബംഗാളിനെ പിന്നോട്ടുനയിക്കുന്നത്. അവസാനവട്ട സാധ്യതകള് പ്രകാരം കൊച്ചിയും മുംബൈയുമാണ് സാധ്യതാപട്ടികയില് മുന്നില്.

Guys, there were plans for an international cricket stadium in Kochi. I heard the Environment Ministry scrapped the project. Is it possible for it to be revived at a location where environment is not an issue, near Kochi?

Guys, there were plans for an international cricket stadium in Kochi. I heard the Environment Ministry scrapped the project. Is it possible for it to be revived at a location where environment is not an issue, near Kochi?

Yeah, its a very serious issue.... They have made an outright purchase of land, along with concessions from Govt, which had no issue of mangroves eariler. The delay in works, made a mangrove area, making environmentalists and few vested lobbies to go against the project. So KCA is now in fix, as it cannot leave its invested land disuse for mangroves...

They have gone for a ligitation route and expects to get green signal from Court. In addition, few other suggestions were taken seriously into consideration. KCA Secretary, made it clear, it will not bulge from its stand and will strongly go ahead with Kochi Stadium, once its priorities for Wayanad SCA facility is over.

Lets wait and watch

Kochi's football dreams is shaping up (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/football-dreams-may-come-true/242166-60-122.html)


The long-standing dream of an exclusive venue for football in the city is becoming a reality with the Greater Cochin Development Authority deciding to sign, within two months, a Memorandum of Understanding with the Kerala Football Association and the Kerala State Sports Council to renovate the Ambedkar Stadium to international standards.

The project included was part of the proposal forwarded by the KFA to stake a claim in India’s bid for the 2017 FIFA under-17 world cup. “An in-principle agreement was reached for converting the Ambedkar Stadium into an international stadium exclusively for football at a meeting held in Thiruvananthapuram earlier this week,” the GCDA chairman-designate N Venugopal told City Express on Friday.

Industries Minister Kunhalikutty, Sports Minister K B Ganesh Kumar, Excise Minister K Babu, MLAs from the district Hibi Eden, Benny Behanan and Dominic Presentation, GCDA secretary George Vallakalil, Mayor Tony Chammany and KFA president K M I Mather, apart from Venugopal, were present at the meeting.

A proposal from the FIFA to fund an artificial turf, along with a regional academy, had long been pending with the KFA, who were so far unable to point out a venue for the project.

Venugopal said that the stadium would be meant exclusively for football and no other event would be allowed.

“The FIFA will be spending about Rs 10 crore for converting the stadium into a venue of international standards. The KFA will have the right to the stadium for 160 days,” he said, adding that the stadium would be given for matches organised by others, in a manner suitable for a football field. It is also learnt that the contract is likely to be for 20 years.

He said that the GCDA would hold further talks with the state sports department and the KFA for finalising the details.

^^

That's something really great that FIFA associating for a stadium project in Kochi.

Kochi stadium to be turfed (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-kerala/article3208343.ece)

The State government has agreed in principle to allow the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) to hand over Ambedkar Stadium under its possession to the All India Football Federation to re-turf it.

The Federation is using funds from International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) to re-turf and improve three or four stadia in the country, and the Ambedkar Stadium near the KSRTC bus terminal was selected as one of the prospective venues. A meeting to deliberate on this was held on Wednesday at the room of P.K. Kunhalikutty, Minister for Industries, in the Assembly complex, and was attended by Ministers K. Babu, V.K. Ebrahim Kunju and K.B. Ganesh Kumar; MLAs, Dominic Presentation, Hibi Eden, Benny Behnan; Mayor Tony Chammini; Ajith B. Patil, Corporation secretary; N. Venugopal, chairman designate and George Vallakalil, secretary of GCDA.

It is learnt that the Federation has asked for custody of the stadium for training purposes for 160 days for at least the next six years after re-laying the turf; but a decision on that would be taken only during later stages of negotiation, sources said.

It is learnt that the meeting also decided to draw up a detailed plan for renovating the stadium, which included adequate parking facilities for conducting matches of international standard.

Minister for Sports K.B. Ganesh Kumar will hold another round of meeting with GCDA officials on Sunday to take the proposal to the next level.

A step forward from Goal 2012 to Jr World Cup (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/a-step-forward-from-goal-2012-to-jr-world-cup/230711-60-122.html)

The long-standing dream of an exclusive venue for football in the city is becoming a reality with the Greater Cochin Development Authority deciding to sign, within two months, a Memorandum of Understanding with the Kerala Football Association and the Kerala State Sports Council to renovate the Ambedkar Stadium to international standards.
Hope at least this time they will ensure a world class facility. The Kaloor stadium is a great example how the authorities and mediocre/low profile contractors screwed up a great architectural design into a mess. even after many make over attempts the stadium lacks clean aesthetic looks :ohno:

Real Madrid's football school in Kochi

The Real Madrid Foundation, through which the famed Spanish football club Real Madrid reaches out to society, will start a football school in Kochi.

The preliminary talks in this regard were held here on Sunday evening and Manuel Tarreno Rodriques, Director of the Real Madrid Foundation's youth camps, had discussions with Kerala Sports Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar, Kerala Sports Council President Padmini Thomas, Kerala Football Association President K.M.I. Mather, MLA Hibi Eden and former Kerala Sports Minister Dominic Presentation.

“The Sports Minister has suggested the Panampilly Nagar Sports Hostel (in Kochi) as the venue for the soccer school,” said the KFA President. “Real Madrid will send coaches, and they may also take some of the boys from here to their academy if they are very talented.”

KFA Secretary P. Anilkumar said the Panampilly Nagar Sports Hostel has been finalised as the venue and that an artificial football turf, swimming pool and a multi-purpose gym could also come up there.

“The Panampilly Nagar Hostel, which is run by the Kerala Sports Council, will have a very modern look. Real Madrid is likely to start projects in other parts of Kerala too,” he said.
http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-sports/article3224644.ece

Real Madrid's football school in Kochi

What's happening?

Barcelona's match expected!

Under 17 world cup proposed venue!

FIFA standard football turf!

and Now Real Madrid Academy!

No more worries losing KTK :cheers:

^^

Real Madrid foundation to train footballers under 19

New synthetic turfs will be developed at Panamilly Nagar in Kochi and Malappuram within one year :cheers:

http://epaper.mathrubhumi.com/epaperimages/2632012/2632012-md-ek-14/13118916.JPG
cc: Mathrubhumi

Lots of positive buzzzzzzzz:banana::banana::banana::banana:

Football is slowly catching up public's fancies.... These news indicate, Kochi is returning back to its old games..... Very happy to hear....

I believe, more training facilities like West Kochi, Parade ground stadium facilities as well as up-gradation of Aluva facility, can help this game to flourish... Looking forward more Kochi based teams like Viva Kerala, FC Kochi etc.....

Panampally Nagar is really getting hotter and hotter... Great updates:banana::banana::cheers:

China’s sports brand Li-Ning enters India (http://www.indiaretailing.com/news.aspx?topic=1&Id=6456)
China's sports brand Li-Ning (http://www.lining.com/EN/home/index.html) has entered the Indian market through a collaboration between Sunlight Sports, Singapore, and Indo Rubber and Plastic Works (Indo Rubber) India. Li-Ning offers sports rackets, footwear, luggage, apparel, and accessories. Founded in 1990 by gymnast and six times Olympic medalist (1984), Li-Ning, the launch will highlight the brand’s badminton apparel and equipment under Li-Ning and Kason brands.

Sunlight Sports and Indo Rubber will offer Li-Ning and Kason’s badminton products across four main categories – footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories.

Speaking on the occasion, Ram Malhotra, Business Head, Li-Ning India, said: “The Indian market is ready for Li-Ning. We believe the strength of the brand lies in its unshakable desire to provide high-quality, innovative sports equipment, apparel, and footwear, which will now be available to consumers across the country. We want the Indian market to view the brand wholly, which promotes the growth of such sports as badminton in India. The brand’s power coupled with Indo Rubber’s extensive distribution network will be integral to achieving this in the country.”

The brand undertakes various sponsorship projects with local badminton and sports academies across India. Mahendar Kapoor, Head of Sunlight Sports, and Sales and Promotions in-charge of Li-Ning, South-East Asia, said: “We want to focus on promoting badminton in India because Li-Ning has such a strong brand presence and association globally with this sport and because of the potential for growth of badminton in India. We currently sponsor eight badminton academies across India including the Nikhil Kanetkar Badminton Academy in Pune and the Regional Sports Centre in Cochin.”

Li-Ning made a debut in the US market earlier this year. In addition to sponsorship projects, the brand also partakes in exchange programmes with the Indian sponsored academies that allow young badminton athletes to visit and get trained in China, Singapore, and Malaysia.

റയല് മാഡ്രിഡ് കൊച്ചിയിലെത്തുന്നു (http://www.kvartha.com/2012/03/real-madrid-will-reach-in-kochi.html)

Kochi among selected 3 locations in the world by Real Madrid Foundation, others being in USA & Egypt :cheers:
The final plan for Ambedhkar stadium modernization by FIFA funds will be made by April 9th.
കൊച്ചി: സ്പാനിഷ് ഫുട്ബോള് ക്ലബായ റയല് മാഡ്രിഡ് കൊച്ചിയിലെത്തുന്നു. കേരളത്തിലെ കുട്ടി ഫുട്ബോളര്മാരെ പരിശീലിപ്പിക്കാനാണ് റയല് മാഡ്രിഡ് കൊച്ചിയിലെത്തുന്നത്. ഇതുസംബന്ധിച്ച് കായീക മന്ത്രി കെ.ബി ഗണേശ് കുമാറും റയല് മാഡ്രിഡ് പ്രതിനിധിയും തമ്മില് ചര്ച്ച നടത്തി.

ഫിഫയുമായി ചേര്ന്ന് അംബേദ്കര് സ്റ്റേഡിയം രാജ്യാന്തര നിലവാരത്തിലേക്കുയര്ത്തുന്ന നടപടിക്ക് അടുത്ത മാസം ഒമ്പതിന് അന്തിമരൂപരേഖ തയാറാക്കാനും കൊച്ചിയില് ചേര്ന്ന ഉന്നതതല യോഗത്തില് ധാരണയായി.

ലോകത്തെ മൂന്നു കേന്ദ്രങ്ങളില് രാജ്യാന്തര നിലവാരമുളള ഫുട്ബോള് പരിശീലന കേന്ദ്രങ്ങള് തയാറാക്കാനുളള പദ്ധതിയുടെ ഭാഗമായാണ് റയല് മാഡ്രിഡ് പ്രതിനിധി കൊച്ചിയിലുമെത്തിയത്.

കൊച്ചിക്കു പുറമേ അമേരിക്കയിലും, ഈജിപ്തിലുമാവും കാല്പ്പന്തുകളിയിലെ കുഞ്ഞുപ്രതിഭകളെ കണ്ടെത്തി പരിശീലനം നല്കാന് റയല്മാഡ്രിഡത്തുക. കൊച്ചി പനമ്പിളളി നഗറില് സ്പോര്ട്സ് കൌണ്സിലിനു കീഴില് പ്രവര്ത്തിക്കുന്ന സ്കൂളിലെ വിദ്യാര്ഥികള്ക്കാവും റയല് മാഡ്രിഡിന്റെ പരിശീലനം ലഭ്യമാവുക.

India Surf Safari 3 (http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20120326/ARTICLES/120329739?tc=ar) by Indo Jax® Surf School
http://indojaxsurfschool.com/homeofhope/106%20copy%202_lg.jpg

WILLINGTON: Indo Jax Surf Charities leaves on March 30 for its third expedition to Kochi, India, in as many years. The group offers a surfing camp for the orphans at Homes of Hope, an orphanage that houses 60 to 100 girls. By teaching the girls to surf – an activity that is virtually unheard of in their part of the world – the surf camp offers them a taste of the childhood freedom and adventure that many of us take for granted.

Indo Jax Surf Charities has run similar camps in the United States with camps for autistic children, wounded veterans, and people suffering illnesses ranging from cerebral palsy to aids to cancer.

For more information, call (910) 274-3565; or go to www.indojaxsurfschool.com

Corporation Budget promises lot for sports lovers (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-kerala/article3256433.ece)

The Kochi Corporation has set aside Rs 70 lakhs for sports in its annual budget which was announced here on Tuesday.

The Elamkulam West School will be upgraded as a sports training centre with the help of the State government and the Corporation has allotted Rs 10 lakh for the purpose.

A sum of Rs. 10 lakh has also been granted to develop and improve facilities at the Elamakkara play ground.

“Our MPs K.V. Thomas and Charles Dias have assured us Rs. 1.35 crore from the MP's fund for the Corporation's Valummal Stadium in Thoppampady,” said B. Bhadra, the Deputy Mayor, on Tuesday evening.

The work on the stadium project has begun.

A Kochi marathon, a Mayor's Trophy football tournament for schools, swimming training for school children and physical aptitude tests to catch talented children for sport are some of the things which the Corporation plans to do in the coming financial year and Rs 50 lakh has been set aside for this.

“The swimming training will be given through the Regional Sports Centre,” said Ms. Bhadra.

She said that the Kochi marathon will be a glamorous, big-money affair and will also involve celebrities.

BCCI approval expected soon.

Deepika (http://malayalam.deepikaglobal.com/News_latest.aspx?catcode=latest&newscode=93530)

Infopark kickstarts for Goal (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/infopark-goal-to-kickstart-on-saturday/244108-60-122.html)

Infopark CEO Gigo Joseph will inaugurate Goal, an inter-company football tournament, organised by UST Global for Infopark based organisations at Cusat Ground in Kalamassery at 8 am on Saturday. Kerala Football Association president K M I Mather will felicitate the participating teams.

A total of 16 teams from different Infopark-based companies will take part in the tournament. The tournament will witness 36 matches. The matches will be played during weekends and the finals will be held on May 6, 2012. There will be teams from Wipro, CTS, OPI, ACS, Ernest and Young, IBS, Arbitron, Orion, Olive IT, ChaYoWo Games, Fragomen, Art Technology, SIT Mobile, Suyati, Visual IQ and UST Global.

Speaking about the tournament, Gijo Joseph pointed out that such events will foster the feeling of togetherness among the staff. Sunil Balakrishnan, Centre Head, UST Global, Kochi, stressed on the need for fair play in the tournament. Technopark in Thrivunanthapuram has been organising such tournament since 2007.

BCCI approval expected soon.

Deepika (http://malayalam.deepikaglobal.com/News_latest.aspx?catcode=latest&newscode=93530)

A big relief for KCA after the loss of KTK. Hope this pulls great crowd so as to bring back more cricketing sport to Kochi.

A big relief for KCA after the loss of KTK. Hope this pulls great crowd so as to bring back more cricketing sport to Kochi.
ഇനിയിപ്പോ അഭിസാരിക എന്ന് വിളിക്കാന്* scope ഇല്ലല്ലോ . :lol:

BCCI approves Kochi as a venue for India-England in Dec 2012-Jan 2013 :banana::banana:

^^

It's India-England match buddy :)

BCCI approves Kochi as a venue for India-Australia in Dec 2012-Jan 2013 :

^^
I think India- England :lol:

^^

It's India-England match buddy :)

Sorry guys.... Its a typo... Edited:)

It could a Day-Night Match for ODI (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-sports/article3275425.ece):cheers:

The Kerala Cricket Association is keen to have the India-England One-Day International, which will be held in Kochi in December, as a day-night affair.

“The BCCI has allotted an India-England ODI to Kochi in December and we are planning to have a day-night match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium,” said T.C. Mathew, the KCA Secretary, on Monday.

A first

“I'll be going to Chennai shortly to discuss this with the BCCI and if it is cleared, it will be Kochi's first ODI under lights. The BCCI will announce the date soon,” he added.

Since Kochi hosted Kochi Tuskers' IPL matches under lights last year, it should not be a problem hosting a day-night ODI, said Mathew.

The December one-dayer will be one of five ODIs England will play during its tour of India towards the end of this year.

The last ODI in Kochi, against Australia in October 2010, was abandoned without a ball being bowled, owing to rain.

The forthcoming match will be Kochi's eighth ODI. Kochi, which has hosted Australia thrice, had last been the venue for an ODI against England in April 2006

Zoommmmmmmm with Autocross at Kochi (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/autocross-zooms-into-kochii/245367-60-122.html)

Speed junkies witnessed history being created last October as India became a shining new star on the Formula One horizon. Now, fans of the fast lane are in for another adrenaline-pumping treat, and this time, the thrills are going to be a lot more direct. The motorsports calender of the country is all set to welcome the inaugural Indian National Autocross Championship (INAC), and five cities, including Kochi, are already gearing up for the twists and turns of the novel venture.

The Federation of Motorsports Clubs of India (FMSCI), in collaboration with sports promoter Wynnsport, will organise the series in five cities- Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, Coimbatore and Kochi. The action is set to begin soon, with the first round scheduled in Bangalore on April 28-29.

“Chennai, Bangalore, Coimbatore and Kochi are arguably the motorsport hubs in India, with plenty of racing enthusiasts, so it was easy to zero-in on these cities. Mumbai as a commercial centre means increased exposure,” says Balakrishna Jayasimha of Wynnsport. He added that this is just the beginning, and their focus, for now, would be to tap the potential of participation and support.

But what exactly does Autocross racing entail, and how is it different from other forms of motorsport?

In layman terms, autocross racing sees drivers navigate through a defined course (mostly dirt tracks), one at a time, thus making it one car on the track against the clock, rather than other cars. The courses are 1 to 2 kilometres in length, and the driver’s skill is more crucial than the prowess of the car. The best part is that unlike F1, there is no need for a dedicated racing track. The races can be held on temporary dirt tracks, which can be created even inside a stadium, of course with the approval of a motorsport body.

And what brings in the crowds? “The chance to be part of the excitement,” says Jayasimha, elaborating that the sport is meant for amateur drivers, who can participate even in an economy sedan, just for fun, or as a stepping stone to more competitive forms of racing, including rally and circuit racing.
Rajan Syal, chief executive of FMSCI underlines the safety element in the venture. “The nature of the track is such that speed limits rarely exceed highway level, but at the same time, the test of a driver’s skill is extensive, which is what makes Autocross a thrilling experience,” he says.

For India, it may be a new start, but Autocross racing has been popular for nearly six decades in many countries, especially in Europe. Informs Herald Benny, who has been actively involved with several racing clubs in Kochi, “Autocross championships in Britain, France and Germany are highly popular and draw in fans as well as wannabe racers in hordes. With F1 already here, the timing could not have been better for an India chapter of Autocross.”
The calender has been more or less finalised, and after the first round at Bangalore’s Palace Grounds, the focus will shift to Kochi, where the second round will be held on May 26-27. “We are in talks with several motorsports clubs in the city, which are keen to organise the race and take care of the logistics,” Jayasimha states, adding that because of the huge captive audience, the potential for brand visibility at the event is going to be quite high.

From Kochi, the carnival will move to Coimbatore, Chennai, Mumbai, before the final round in Bangalore in December. An all-women’s class will be part of the championship, along with a foreign open class. With over 100 participants already confirmed for Bangalore, the organisers are hopeful that this niche beginning will eventually become a mega event in India's sporting calender. With the racing culture catching on, and the extra dose of entertainment planned by the organisers, there is surely reason to hope that Kochi would have something to look forward to, when the starting grid lines up next month.

It could a Day-Night Match for ODI (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-sports/article3275425.ece):cheers:

Considering the humidity level in the city, its also a win-win situation for both the players and the spectators.. I dont know about dew if anyone wants to know :)

Whatever.. cricket is back in Kochi :cheers:

Considering the humidity level in the city, its also a win-win situation for both the players and the spectators.. I dont know about dew if anyone wants to know :)

Whatever.. cricket is back in Kochi :cheers:

Decemeber is not that humid.

Anyway, great news for cricket fans in Kochi:banana:

Decemeber is not that humid.


Yup! Only, like 70-80%!! Much better than the 95-100% that is normal :lol:

Gilchrist starts search for India’s fastest runner (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/Gilchrist-starts-search-for-Indias-fastest-runner/articleshow/12513714.cms)

Cochin is now a prominent 'happening' Indian city. Most of the nation wide events has either a stopover or an event in Cochin too. :cheers:
The entire venue for the Faastest Indian Challenge, Chandigarh, came alive as Punjab IPL team's newly appointed coach-cum-captain Adam Gilchrist entered the grounds of one of the city schools in Sector 40, Chandigarh. Dressed in a typical sportsman look with a black tracksuit and white cap, this 6 feet, 1 inch tall Australian cricketer stole all the glares at the venue where he flagged-off the challenge.

It was all cheers for him as he wore his running shoes and covered the running track to kick-start the challenge.

Faastest Indian is a challenge to identify India's fastest runners. The event looks forward to find runners from multiple locations in India, including Pune, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Delhi NCR, Cochin and Chandigarh. The winners - the fastest man and woman in the country - will get a title of Faastest Man and Woman in India and also win a chance to fly to Zurich, to meet the fastest man in the world, Usain 'Lightning' Bolt later this year.

On this occasion, Adam said, "I have been a running enthusiast myself for years and it's indeed a pleasure to be a part of this interesting challenge of finding the fastest Indians. I wish all the participants best of luck and cheers to the winners who will get a chance to meet Usain Bolt."

Decemeber is not that humid.

Anyway, great news for cricket fans in Kochi:banana:

Yep thats what I meant.. its less humid in Dec..

Kakkanad Municipal ground getting ready for Indian sevens premier league football

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cc:Manorama

Leisure Yachting in Kochi:

http://www.keralayachting.com/images/img_aroor01.jpg

Malabar Yacht Club,
12/167, Kannamaly P.O. Kochi.
Tel: 91-484-2282899, 2228389, Mob: +91 984 739 7735

Vivanta by Taj – Malabar
Willingdon Island, Kochi.
Tel: 91 484 664 3000. Email: Vivanta.malabar@tajhotels.com
Website: http://www.vivantabytaj.com/

Taj Gateway
Marine drive, Kochi682 036
Tel: 91-484-6673300. Email: gateway.ernakulam@tajhotels.com.
Website: www.tajhotels.com/

Cochin Yacht Club
Konthuruthy, Thevara, Kochi
Tel: 91-484-2310293. Email: cyc@vsnl.in.
Website: http://www.cochinyachtclub.com

The Kerala Yachting Association
D 3103, JNI Stadium, Kaloor, Kochi
Tel: 91-484-3233933, Email: info@keralayachting.com,
Website: www.keralayachting.com

Team CRC Woodlands Dirt track 2012

Cochin Racing Club

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^^ great shots there :cheers:

Kakkanad Municipal ground getting ready for Indian sevens premier league football

INDIAN SEVENS FOOTBALL Premier League (http://www.sevensfootball.in/demo/)

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Mahesh Bhupathi at RSC, Kochi

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cc: Manorama

All set for Indian sevens football in Kerala (http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/sport/football/all-set-indian-sevens-football-kerala-450)
Twelve teams will line-up for the opening season of Indian Sevens Football Premier League that is set to kick off at the Municipal Stadium in Kakkanad on Saturday.

As a prelude to the Sevens Football Premier League, a friendly will be played between Best of Kerala and African 7s, comprising players of African origin representing various clubs in the state.

The organisers informed that they plan to make it an annual tournament to popularise 7s football, which is not recognised by the official football bodies in the country.

Football Academy Kolkata will be the only team from outside the state and the opener will be played between Base, Perumbavor and Mediguard, Areekode.

INDMERC (http://www.indmerc.in/) Power Boat Rally concluded in Kochi

Events were conducted for boats in 2 categories - above & below 100 HP.
12 teams participated.

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cc: Manorama

FACT looking for new players (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/Fertilisers-and-Chemicals-Travancore-looking-for-new-players/articleshow/12722996.cms)
Sporting associations who want space to conduct training sessions and events can now look at the open grounds of Fertilisers and Chemicals Travancore (FACT) Limited at Udyogamandal.

The public sector unit has called for competitive tenders to apply for licence to use the FACT campus ground, which was earlier leased out to Kerala Football Association for its training programmes and tournaments.

According to FACT officials, tenders were invited from new parties as the Kerala Football Association was not making use of the ground. The ground can be used mainly for practice sessions for cricket, football and hockey. However, it cannot be used for basketball or volleyball. The licence period is for a year.

Teams like Viva Kerala, Chirag United Club and most of the KFA training had been conducted at the Fact ground.

The minimum licence fee is about Rs 1,80,000 for a year. According to football association sources, non-availability of guest house accommodation for football players undergoing training was a point of contention as FACT could not mandate the use of guest house facility for non-officials.

CIAL Golf and Country Club

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Cheering on the boys (http://www.deccanchronicle.com/tabloid/kochi/cheering-boys-965)
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Leena Panchal.

The Football Development Foundation (FDF) (http://indianfooty.org/index.php), an initiative by a group of Malayalis to give a boost to the beautiful game and identify and nurture talent, has roped in pretty model, Leena Panchal to endorse and support their efforts.

“I am a Liverpool fan and used to follow the English Premier League closely. Football is not given enough importance and encouragement in our country,” says Leena, who flew down to Kochi from Mumbai along with the organisers of FDF.

What made her take up the cause of football, which is essentially a man’s game? “Oscar winner Resul Pookkutty and South African former player Smiley Moosa joined the initiative and I thought, ‘why not do my bit?’ I feel women should also take up football,” she says, waxing eloquent on how the game not only keeps one healthy but also improves the personality.

Born in Ahmedabad, Leena settled in Mumbai five years ago. Several fashion campaigns and fashion weeks later, she is now trying to establish herself as a Bollywood actress.

She had a fairly significant role in Housefull and has just finished shooting her part in Golmal Returns. “After a certain age, one can’t do modeling but one can go on acting,” she says, citing the example of Amitabh Bachchan.

Indian Sevens Football Premier League at Kakkanad

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cc: Manorama

INAC: Top action in prospect (http://www.deccanherald.com/content/244303/top-action-prospect.html)
The opening round of the inaugural edition of the FMSCI Indian National Autocross Championship will be held here at the Palace grounds on April 28 and 29.

The championship, to be promoted by Wynnsport, will witness over 100 drivers. “Top drivers and teams have shown interest in the event and the starting grid looks very good. The Karnataka Motor Sport Club will be helping us organise the event in Bangalore.

“We have, with the support of the FMSCI, kept up our promise of announcing the classes by the first week of April,” Balakrishna Jayasimha, Wynnsport Chief Executive, said at a press conference here on Monday.

The INAC will be held in five cities including Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore, Cochin and Mumbai with the final round to be held again in Bangalore in December.

The event will be run under the aegis of the FIA and is subject to regulations laid down by the FIA. These include the FIA International Sporting Code, the FIA General Prescriptions (Rally) and the FMSCI Autocross Championship Regulations that will be specific to the INAC.
Two trauma care ambulances, a fire engine and tow vehicles will be present at the venue.
Classes: Upto 850cc, Over 850cc-upto 1150cc, Over 1150cc-upto 1400cc, Over 1400cc-upto 1600cc, Upto 3000cc, 4x4 Gypsy (upto 1400cc), Upto 1400 cc (Ladies open).

Calender: April 28-29: Bangalore; May 26-27: Cochin; July 14-15: Coimbatore; September 15-16: Chennai; November 3-4: Mumbai; December 8-9: Bangalore.

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^^

80 entries for National Autocross (http://india.nydailynews.com/article/a49dbabe7d8b3cfb0ba9e12073f21b6b/80-entries-for-national-autocross)
Nearly 80 vehicles, some of them driven by well-known names, are likely to take part in the first round of the inaugural Indian National Autocross Championship to be held here Sunday.

According to Balakrishna Jayasimha, Chief Executive, Wynnsport, the promoters, the entries include the likes of Lohitt Urs, veterans Rahul Kanthraj and Babban Khan, besides the country's top woman racing driver, Nawaz Bhatena.

Also in the fray are a bunch of vehicles from local FRK Racing who have a strong presence in the National rally and racing circuit, besides a team from Kochi who have confirmed eight entries.

The actual autocross event has been packaged along with some entertainment items like a rock band show where Delhi's popular group Parikrama, is scheduled to perform, and adventure sports while the "Bangalore Pandhis", the local Harley-Davidson bike owners' club will be parading the iconic two-wheelers.

For the first time in India, the autocross will have two vehicles running concurrently but on different tracks of nearly two kms each, said Balakrishna at a Media interaction here Monday.

The event is open to all cars manufactured in India and will be categorised on the basis of cubic capacity and modifications into six classes - up to 850cc, 850-1100cc, 1100-1400cc, 1400-1600cc, up to 3000cc, Gypsy up to 1400cc (4x4) and up to 1400cc for women.

The next five rounds will be held at Kochi (May 26-27), Coimbatore (July 14-15), Chennai (Sept 15-16), Mumbai (Nov 3-4) and Bangalore (Dec 8-9).

Summer Golf camp at CIAL Golf Club to conclude today

http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/385/fffcopy.jpg
cc: Mathrubhumi

Decade on, 100 dirt bikers vroom in city (http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/decade-on-100-dirt-bikers-vroom-in-city/946348/)
In the scorching heat on Sunday morning, it was a treat for Ahmedabadis when 100-odd bikers vroom their dirt bikes on a rugged terrain with several heaps of sands and unexpected turns.
After a decade, the city once again got the opportunity to witness the “MRF National Supercross Championship” organised near S G Highway.

The championship is the biggest off-road two-wheeler racing event in India.

It is run under the aegis of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI), which is the sole governing body of all forms of Motosports in the country and it is recognised by the Central Sports Ministry and Indian Olympic Association.

For the last 11 years, Sportstrek has been organising the event in various cities of the country.

In today’s race, participants from cities like Nasik, Nagpur, Bhopal, Indore, Bangalore, Goa, Hyderabad and Mumbai brought their powerful dirt bikes.

There were seven categories made on the basis of number of races and the power of the engine.

The engine capacity of bikes were ranging from 250 cc 2-stroke to 500 cc 4-stroke. The categories included Foreign Open, Novice, Indian Experts, Locals, Indian Experts-C, Private Experts and Private Foreign Class.

Alan Sequeira (31), a resident of Goa, came first in Foreign Private category after securing 37 points. Alan have been riding dirt bikes from last 16 years and he also won the championship of India in 2010.

The winners in today’s event were Veer Patel (Foreign Open), Yuva Kumar (Novice), Arvind K.P (Indian Experts), Manoj Vaghela (Locals), R Natraj (Indian Experts Class C), Naresh V S (Private Experts) and Alan Sequeira (Private Foreign Open). The next three rounds of the championship will be held in Jaipur, Chandigarh and Cochin.

Manoj Vaghela (50), a resident of city’s Nava Vadaj area secured first position in locals category with 20 points.

“I am riding dirt bikes for last 30 years. My dad was a champion and I got this passion from him,” said Vaghela, who is also a part of a 15-member biker group.

Josco FC keeps (Foot)ball rolling on FACT Ground (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/josco-fc-keeps-football-rolling-on-fact-ground/257726-60-122.html)
Football will continue to roll at the FACT Ground in Eloor, for another season at least. For Cochin Premier League side Josco FC is gearing up to constitute a strong side for the coming season, with the venue at Udyogamandal as their base. Fertilisers and Chemicals Travancore Limited (FACT) officials told ‘City Express’ that Josco FC were the only ones to have submitted bids for licence to use the playing area at the FACT Ground.

“Tenders were opened on May 3 and only Josco FC had submitted a bid. They have quoted a price similar to that of last year,” said an official who did not want to be named. He said the club was yet to sign a formal contract, which is expected to be made soon.

Last season, Josco had taken the ground on licence for `1.8 Lakh. The same was stated as the minimum amount for submitting bids in the tender invitation published on the Public Sector Unit’s website.
Sources told ‘City Express’ that the Josco FC management is keen to develop a team good enough to make their presence felt in the second division national league next season.

After a couple of promising seasons, during which period they won the state inter-club title and also played in the second division league, the team had fallen into disarray last year following a dispute with some players on payment issues.

However, the team managed to put together a side for the Cochin Premier League early this year to keep their registration with the Ernakulam District Football Association intact. Technically, the current season ends only on May 31; and hence, they are playing their cards close to the chest.
Meanwhile, the Ernakulam District Cricket Association secretary Jayesh George said the Kerala Cricket Association had stayed away from the bidding process to avoid ill-feeling in the football fraternity.

“KCA decided not to bid for the ground as we did not want to cause a feeling that cricket is taking away football venues,” Jayesh said. At the same time, the FACT Employees’ Association - which had come out strongly against the move to include cricket as one of the games for which the ground could be licensed - stuck to their stand that the FACT management was washing its hands off the responsibility to maintain the venue.

“FACT is capable of maintaining the ground. But the management is not willing to take up the responsibility and are instead taking the easy way out,” said FEA general secretary P S Murali.

National autocross Kochi round postponed (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-sports/article3419946.ece)
The second round of the FMSCI's (http://www.fmsci.in/main/default.html) Indian National Autocross Championship, which was scheduled to be held in Kochi on May 26 and 27, has been postponed to October.

“We have postponed it because of the rain in Kochi,” said Balakrishna Jayasimha, the Chief Executive of Wynnsport, the promoter of the event, from Bangalore on Monday evening. “We will now have the event on October 6 and 7.”

However, the venue for the Kochi event and the local organiser here have not been finalised yet.

“We have not finalised the venue in Kochi but we are talking to Jiju (Jiju Elias of the Motorsports Association of Kerala) and Abhilash (PGA Motorsport),” said Balakrishna.

While Jiju spoke of Panangad's Synthite Ground being a possible venue, P.G. Abhilash, who runs a team in the National Autocross Championship, said that he was planning a track in Kakkanad.

The FMSCI's Autocross Championship, a six-leg event which made its debut this year, had its opening round in Bangalore late last month.

Chennai will now host the next round on July 14 and 15.

CM promises funds for new swimming pool at RSC (http://www.rsccochin.org/)

http://img28.imageshack.us/img28/8683/2848515.jpg
cc: Mathrubhumi

^^ oh, is it true ? never knew that Kochi is part of this event as a host venue...:nuts:

^^ oh, is it true ? never knew that Kochi is part of this event as a host venue...:nuts:

Same here. If this report is true, RSC is a new addition to the games location. Why should crores be spent on a new facility when an International standard facility is right at your door step.

Government to pool resources to aid RSC (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/government-to-pool-resources-to-aid-rsc/259685-60-122.html)
Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said that the government will provide its share of funds to upgrade the swimming pool complex at the Regional Sports Centre (RSC) into an Olympic-size pool. He was speaking at the Annual Day Celebrations of the Regional Sports Centre in Kochi on Saturday.

“The Regional Sports Centre in Kochi is one of the most successful examples of the private-public partnerships in our country. There is a need to upgrade the centre’s infrastructure. Training has to be provided for students with potential. The state government intends to develop the stadium in time to host the upcoming National Games. We will provide our support,” he added. Chandy stated that this target will be considered a challenge and that steps will be taken to ensure its success.

The RSC officials will have to first submit a project report to the government highlighting the development potential of the pool, he said.
RSC secretary V Manohar Prabhu said the report is almost complete and and that the proposal will be submitted to the state government soon. “We will come up with Rs 5 crore to develop the pool. The rest will be hopefully provided by the state,” he added.

After the inaugural ceremony, various players who trained at the Regional Sports Centre and have reached national and international heights were felicitated. Among them were Sanave Thomas and Roopesh Kumar who are currently ranked number 28 and national ranked number nine at the Mens’ Doubles, respectively, Diju V who is ranked number 14 at the Mixed Doubles, Aparna Balan who has a National ranking in mixed doubles as number one, Arathi Sara Sunil who ranked number one at Doubles and Shyam Prasad, Junior Boys Singles National ranking 27.

RSC football trainee Kent Joseph Mazuda and Tennis players Tanvi S Bhat and Gayathri Shankar who are ranked 87 and 44, respectively, in the Asia under 14 category were felicitated.

ഇന്ത്യാ ഇംഗ്ലണ്ട് രണ്ടാം ഏകദിനം കൊച്ചിയിൽ (http://www.mathrubhumi.com/story.php?id=273862)

കൊച്ചി: ഇന്ത്യാ ഇംഗ്ലണ്ട് പരമ്പരയിലെ രണ്ടാം ഏകദിനം കൊച്ചിയിൽ നടക്കും. ജനുവരി 15നാണ് ഡേനൈറ്റ് ആയി മത്സരം നടക്കുക.

^^ Great news. :banana:

^^

Fantastic news. The first D/N ODI at Kochi. That would be great. :cheers:

http://epaper.manoramaonline.com/MMDaily/Kochi/2012/05/23/F/MMDaily_Kochi_2012_05_23_F_SP_020/996_1662_1950_2058.jpg

KOCHI: January 2013 is going to be toughest month for the state police. With the international ODI between India and England slated to be held on January 15 at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium in Kaloor, the police will have to devise a major action plan for its smooth conduct, as they also need to focus on the famous Makaravillakku festival at Sabarimala on January 14.

Though the police will be focusing more on Makaravillakku, considering the past tragedies that have occurred at the hill shrine, they will be forced to put in place a tight security arrangement for the ODI due to heightened threat perception to ODIs from terrorist organizations.

"We are equipped to handle the toughest situations. We have enough strength. The state police will chalk out appropriate measures to provide fool proof arrangements for the Makaravillakku festival and the ODI," said director general of police (DGP) Jacob Punnoose.

"We will be having certain issues due to the date announced for the ODI. But the police do not want to become a party spoiler," he added.

While the required deployment for ODI of around 3,000 police personnel for its smooth conduct, around 5,000 police personnel including 1,500 civil police officers are deployed for the Makaravillakku festival for traffic regulation and crowd management at Sabarimala and nearby places.

According to police officials, traffic regulation on the ODI day in Kochi is going to be the toughest challenge. "There will be heavy traffic from Sabarimala after the festival. These vehicles along with those of cricket fans coming from various places are going to create a chaotic situation. Cops will have to devise advance measures to control the flow of traffic to the city," said an official.

January 2013 is going to be toughest month for the state police. With the Bannouncing January 15 as the date for the international ODI between India and England at Jawaharlal Nehru stadium at Kaloor, the state police have to devise a major action plan for the smooth conduct of the match as the police have to focus on the famous Makaravillakku festival at Sabarimala which is on January 14.

Though police will be focusing more on Makaravillakku considering the past tragedies that occurred at the hill shrine, they will be forced to put in place a tight security arrangement for the ODI due to heightened threat perception to ODIs from terrorist organisations.

"We are equipped to handle any toughest situation. We have enough strength. The state police will chalk out appropriate measures to provide fool proof arrangements for the Makaravillakku festival and the ODI," said Director General of Police (DGP) Jacob Punnoose.

"We will be having certain issues due to the date announced for the ODI. But police do not want to become a party spoiler," the DGP added.

While the ODI required deployment of around 3000 police personnel for its smooth conduct, around 5000 police personnel including 1500 civil police officers are deployed for the Makaravillakku festival for traffic regulation and crowd management at Sabarimala and nearby places.

According to police officials, traffic regulation on the ODI day in Kochi is going to be the toughest challenge for the police. "There will be heavy flow of vehicles coming from Sabarimala after the Makaravillaku festival. These vehicles along with the vehicles of cricket fans coming from various parts of the state are going to create a chaotic situation in the city. Police will have to devise advance measures to control the flow of traffic to the city," the officials added.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/State-police-will-have-to-tough-it-out-in-Jan-2013/articleshow/13403009.cms

http://www.kochivibe.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/cricket.jpg

http://www.volvoworldgolfchallenge.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/logo.png

Kochi among cities hosting Volvo World Golf Challenge (http://www.volvoworldgolfchallenge.com/)'s India Entry :cheers:

I think CIAL Golf Club (CGCC) will be hosting the Kochi event, which will be it's first major international tourney.
The first-leg of the `Volvo World Golf Challenge` will be played at the Chandigarh Golf Club here on June 2.

Amateur golfers from the corporate and industrial world will participate in the tournament following the PGTI Players Championship.

Apart from Chandigarh, the tournament will be held at New Delhi, Mumbai, Coimbatore, Hyderabad, Kochi and Pune.

The two best-placed finishers from India will play at World final in January 2013.

"An added attraction to this tournament is the winner`s trophy. Each trophy is a hand-made work of art by talented blown glass artist Atul Bakshi. Atul`s creation beautifully cascades Volvo`s Scandinavian style and design elements," said Sudeep Narayan, Marketing & PR Director, Volvo Auto India.

Source (http://zeenews.india.com/sports/golf/volvo-world-golf-challenge-from-june-2_742944.html)

A landless football academy idea (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/a-landless-football-academy-idea/263824-60-116.html)
It has been a good six years since the state government agreed to allocate five acres for a dedicated football academy in Kochi and four months since the Chief Minister reiterated that promise to the Kerala Football Association.

To this date, neither the state government nor the district administration has got any firm directive that the procedure for land acquisition be set in motion.

Excise Minister and Ernakulam District Football Association president K Babu, while speaking to Express, said the availability of land is proving to be a hurdle. “The proposal to give five acres for a football academy still stands but the availability of land is a big problem in Kochi. We have not been able to identify land for the purpose,” Babu said.

Ernakulam District Collector P I Sheikh Pareeth admitted as much saying he was yet to receive a communication regarding the matter from the government.

“I haven’t received any notification on the matter. But if there is a demand, the government has land in Kakkanad and Irumbanam that can be allotted for a football academy,” he said.

Express has learnt from reliable sources though that the KFA has identified suitable land in Ernakulam district itself. It was up to the government to take it forward, they pointed out.

KFA president K M I Mather said the government has agreed to issue an order to the District Collector to identify land for the academy. “Everything is expected to fall in place in the next two months,” Mather said.

Sports Minister K B Ganesh Kumar was not available for comment though he had said a couple of months back that plans were afoot to build a football school in Ernakulam with synthetic turf, referring to the proposal to develop the Government High School Ground in Panampilly Nagar after Real Madrid representatives offered to set up a football school on March 25.

During the valedictory function of ‘Goal 2012’ all-Kerala inter-collegiate football tournament organised by The New Indian Express, Oommen Chandy, on February 10, had said, “The state govt had decided to provide five acres of land for setting up a full-fledged football academy in Kochi way back in 2006. But due to the announcement of elections, the decision could not be implemented. But, now the government is ready to implement the decision if KFA comes forward with the demand.”

KOCHI: There won't be Lionel Messi or the rising Brazilian star Neymar on show.

The key matches would also go well beyond midnight. But when it comes to football, the city, soon to be in the grip of Euro Cup fever, is not sleeping, and hotels are planning to make the most of it.

Though the 12 midnight deadline is a dampener, most of the lounge and sports bars in the city are sporting 30 inch screens with the usual menu of beverages and finger foods for the football fan, who are hoping to at least catch the early matches at their favourite watering joints with friends.

"The government has a midnight timing for licensed bars. This is a huge blow for us this football season. All we can do is to host the 'group stage' of the cup, that too the first session. The real show stoppers - the semis and finals - are all after 12 am," said Fino, food and beverage manager at Hotel Dreams.

The city boasts of two sports-themed bars in Holiday Inn and Gokulam Park Inn, which are getting ready for the Euro Cup fans.

The rising number of cafes and bistros are also trying to cash in on the season. Kahawa bistro in the city's south and the 24X7 Chillax cafe are looking forward to do reasonably good business.

"We are not talking about profit, but showing tournaments is a great way to connect with our customers," said Liya Liza Mathew, co-proprietor of Kahawa.

"The problem though is in getting the local police permit and having more staff. But we are hoping to get a reasonable crowd," she said.

Kiran M, the owner of Chillax cafe, believes that the audience for sports is largely homogenous, male and men.

"It's mainly the men who turn up for watching matches, though during Indian Premier League (IPL) there were also girls watching the matches. A floating crowd of about 40 or so came in for the Champions League matches early on and this time we are expecting more," said Kiran, who launched a second outlet in the city recently.

KOCHI: For the past one week, goalkeeper P R Sreejesh was living on a prayer. With goalkeeper Bharat Chettri almost certain to make it to the Olympic hockey squad as skipper, Sreejesh knew his only chance of sealing a berth in the Indian hockey team to London depended on selectors' decision to pick two goalkeepers.

On Monday, his prayers were answered as the selectors included him as the second goalkeeper in the 16-member squad for London. And there's one man Sreejesh thanks profusely for making his London trip possible - Indian team's Aussie coach, Michael Nobbs. "The coach has reposed great belief in my abilities. He has helped me in realising my dream. Now it is time for me to repay the faith that he has showed in my abilities," Sreejesh told TOI from his training camp in Pune.

Though some former players criticised the decision to include two goalkeepers, the 24-year-old lad from Kizhakkambalam near here sees merit in the move. "In hockey, the goalkeepers have a heavy workload. In a high profile tournament like Olympics, it is good to have two goalkeepers. Our coach has opted for a rotation policy for goalkeepers in the last few tours. I think he plans to continue with that policy in Olympics too. Moreover, if there is an injury to one goalkeeper, you have a ready backup on the bench," added Sreejesh, sounding optimistic of his chances of making it to the playing XI. The Kochi lad thinks the team has gained immensely from its foreign tours. "In the last one year we have played against almost all big teams. We know their style of play. So it will be easy for us to plan and strategize. The exposure tours have made us fearless."

However, he is realistic about India's chances at London. "It is easy very easy to say that we will return with a medal. But you have to take into account the fact that we are up against the likes of Holland and Germany in our group. Our objective should be to qualify for the semis first," said Sreejesh.

Sreejesh will not have time to come to Kochi and share his joy of Olympic selection with his parents. The training camp will continue in Pune and on June 24 the team will leave for a tour of France and Spain before heading to London.

However his parents, Raveendran and Usha Raveendran are not disappointed. "Ever since he grabbed a hockey stick, he always wanted to play in Olympics. I am glad his hard work and perseverance has paid off. I hope I can see him with an Olympic medal on his return from London," said Raveendran.

Deserving the place

I am very happy for Sreejesh. I have watched him from a very small age. He has got a daredevil attitude towards the game and is unperturbed. His performance under the bar will be critical to India's chances at London - Ramesh Kolappa, Sreejesh's first coach

I have watched Sreejesh on television. To me he is better than skipper Bharat Chettri in goal. He has sharp reflexes and his charging down against opponents in penalty corner conversions is brilliant. My blessings are with him. I could only return with a bronze from Munich Olympics in 1972. I hope comes with a gold from London - Manuel Fredricks, Kerala's first Olympian in hockey.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/P-R-Sreejeshs-goal-is-semis-berth-in-Olympics/articleshow/14043776.cms

http://epaper.mathrubhumi.com/epaperimages/1262012/1262012-md-ek-19/51148619.JPG

CIAL Golf course to be the first 18 hole international std golf course in the state by December 2012

^^

1400 Members (Rs 2 lakh per membership).
Rs 19 crore first phase completed.
Rs 18 crore phase II U/C
Gold Academy comprising of 2 Tennis courts, 1 Basket Ball court.

Geethu guides India to Beach Asiad gold

http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/01118/TH20_BASKET_1118692f.jpg

International Geethu Anna Jose topscored with 11 points as India defeated host China 17-14 and won the women’s 3on3 basketball gold in the third Asian Beach Games at Haiyang on Tuesday.

It was India’s first gold at Haiyang.

India — international Anitha Paul Durai, Kiranjit Kaur and the young Shireen Vijay Limaye were the others in the four-member side — fielded some of its best players at these Games while China was a junior team with an average age of 16. Zhang Xu, the host’s oldest player at 17, was China’s top scorer with nine points.

Geethu also emerged as the Games’ top scorer with 45 points from the five 10-minute matches. India had earlier beaten Mongolia 21-16 in the semifinals and Nepal 22-6, Philippines 14-9 and Thailand 17-12 in the preliminary league.

Men finish fifth

India finished fifth in men’s 3on3 basketball after defeating Thailand 16-8 while Afghanistan defeated Turkmenistan 16-9 and won the gold.

In beach volleyball, India’s P. Mohan and Pradeep John failed to qualify for the pre-quarterfinal after finishing second in the three-team Group F. India beat Cambodia 21-14, 21-17 but lost to Kazakhstan 15-21, 17-21.

In kabaddi, the Indian women defeated Thailand 48-40 in a preliminary league game.

- Preliminary rounds(group stage matches) will be held in Kochi, Kolkata, Goa, Mumbai, Bangalore and Guwahati. Semifinal and Final in Delhi
- 24 teams, 6 groups
- International standard stadiums will be ready in India by 2017 says AIFF Vice President A R Khalil

http://www.mathrubhumi.com/sports/story.php?id=281278

Are they going to build a new stadium or going to use the existing facilities(JNIS or Ambedkar stadium)? Anyway good news for football fans like me:)

^^ great news :cheers:

^^

Kochi to host under 17 Football World Cup 2017 to be held in India.

That's a really great news.

I really wish they upgrade the Ambedhkar stadium as per proposal to develop into FIFA standards.

Better to have an international stadium for this..

^^

Kochi to host under 17 Football World Cup 2017 to be held in India.

That's a really great news.

I really wish they upgrade the Ambedhkar stadium as per proposal to develop into FIFA standards.

Better to upgrade JN international stadium to international standard by demolishing the crap roof and fix modern roof instead of the existing one. For improving infrastructure develop stadium link road into 4 line road and most importand is to develop Pullepadi - Thammanam - SP/AP road into a 4 line road with parking facility. Another plus for JN stadiun is By 2017 our metro will also become functional and it will improve connectivity to stadium.

Better to upgrade JN international stadium to international standard by demolishing the crap roof and fix modern roof instead of the existing one. For improving infrastructure develop stadium link road into 4 line road and most importand is to develop Pullepadi - Thammanam - SP/AP road into a 4 line road with parking facility. Another plus for JN stadiun is By 2017 our metro will also become functional and it will improve connectivity to stadium.

I don't personally support conversion of JNIS back to Foot ball stadium. In India, atleast for a decade only one game will rule, that would be cricket. There is no point in having a 60,000+ seats for a football game. The craze has came down so drastically. Unless some Argentia or Brazil come and play here, there won't be any sustainable crowd in Kerala. Perhaps Goa and WB might be the only states in our country, that can draw some sustainable crowd.

What more important, we should have a world class soccer stadium, smaller in size, say 20,000 or 15,000 etc, ideally in place not too congested. This is because, congestion in the city and transportation issue will be some reasons, to keep the crowd off, as there is no huge craze unlike Cricket, for which people will anything for it.

Smaller size soccer stadiums are important, to encourage more clubs affording them for practicing and encourage local tournaments on a regular basis. Its impossible for local teams to take JNIS for rent and play here. I feel, such stadiums should come in more residential area with more open areas for practices etc. Aluva, Kakkanad, Tripunithara, Varapuzha etc are some better areas to consider a good optimum sized soccer stadium.

JNIS should be fully handed over to KCA and redeveloped completely into cricket stadium.

http://i47.tinypic.com/34oaigw.jpg
cc: India Today

http://img402.imageshack.us/img402/9018/sp1xt.jpg

^^ Superb News :cheers:

Airtel soccer talent hunt in Kochi, Kozhikode (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-sports/article3575186.ece)
Kochi and Kozhikode are among the 16 cities which will host the Airtel Rising star under-16 soccer talent hunt.

The scheme — to be launched in mid July in association with the respective State football associations will give an opportunity for 12 talented footballers to undergo training at the Manchester United football Academy in Old Trafford. The best three players from each of the 16 cities will attend the final six-day camp-cum-selection trials, which will be conducted by coaches from Manchester United.

The 48 players will be divided into four teams of 12 each and they will be tested on different parameters like physical attributes, individual skills and match situations and the final 12 best players will be selected to travel to Manchester.

CIAL Golf & Country Club phase II to be ready by December

http://img819.imageshack.us/img819/8825/gallery6traditionalarch.jpg

Golf Academy, Sports complex with International standard Swimming pool, 2 Tennis courts & 1 Basket Ball court part of the club.

http://img717.imageshack.us/img717/5163/00205202161.jpg
cc: Manorama

200 new memberships open for CGCC

Shows the cosmopolitan culture of the city. :cheers:

Rs 5 lakh fee for each new membership of the CIAL Golf and Country Club.
The earlier allocation had 1200 members at Rs 2 lakh each.

സിയാല് ഗോള്ഫ് ക്ലബ്ബില് 200 പേര്ക്ക് കൂടി അംഗത്വം (http://www.mathrubhumi.com/online/malayalam/news/story/1690763/2012-07-02/kerala)

നെടുമ്പാശ്ശേരി: കൊച്ചി രാജ്യാന്തര വിമാനത്താവള കമ്പനിയുടെ കിഴിലുള്ള സിയാല് ഗോള്ഫ് ക്ലബ്ബില് അംഗത്വം കൂട്ടുന്നു. ആവശ്യക്കാരുടെ എണ്ണം വര്ധിച്ചതിനാലാണ് അംഗത്വം ഉയര്ത്താന് തിരുവനന്തപുരത്ത് നടന്ന സിയാല് ഡയറക്ടര് ബോര്ഡ് യോഗം തീരുമാനിച്ചത്. 200 പേര്ക്ക് കൂടി അംഗത്വം നല്കാനാണ് തീരുമാനം. അംഗത്വം ലഭിക്കുന്നതിന് 5 ലക്ഷം ഫീസ് അടക്കണം. പുതിയ അംഗത്വം വഴി വിമാനത്താവള കമ്പനിയ്ക്ക് 10 കോടി ലഭിക്കും.

ഗോള്ഫ് കോഴ്സിന്റെ വികസനത്തിന് ഈ തുക വിനിയോഗിക്കാനാകും. ഇതിന്റെ രണ്ടാം ഘട്ടനിര്മാണം നടക്കുകയാണ്. 18 ഹോളോടുകൂടിയ രാജ്യാന്തര നിലവാരത്തിലുള്ള ഗോള്ഫ് കോഴ്സ് മൂന്നുമാസത്തിനുള്ളില് സജ്ജമാകും. 9 ഹോളോടുകൂടിയ ഗോള്ഫ് കോഴ്സാണ് ആദ്യം പൂര്ത്തിയായത്.

ഗോള്ഫ് ക്ലബ്ബില് ആദ്യം 1200 പേര്ക്കാണ് അംഗത്വം നല്കിയത്. രണ്ടുലക്ഷം രൂപയായിരുന്നു ഫീസ്. ഗോള്ഫ് ക്ലബ് അംഗങ്ങള്ക്ക് കൂടുതല് സൗകര്യങ്ങള് ഒരുക്കാനും പദ്ധതിയുണ്ട്.

GCDA stadium for football (http://www.deccanchronicle.com/node/137831)
http://www.deccanchronicle.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/article_horizontal/article-images/4-K---AMBEDKAR-STADUIM.jpg.crop_display.jpg
A view of Ambedkar stadium in Kochi

The state on Wednesday decided to give the Ambedkar Stadium under the jurisdiction of Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) to the Kerala Football Association (KFA) to be used exclusively for football.

The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by the sports minister, Mr KB Ganesh Kumar, and attended by officials of GCDA, legislators Hibi Eden and K. Babu and director of sports and youth affairs, Dr Amit Mallick, in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday.

GCDA has been advised to serve a letter to KFA about the procedures involved. If KFA agrees to the terms and conditions, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) will be signed between them.

“Once the MoU is signed, KFA will be allowed to use the stadium for its activities. The venue will not be given for any non-sports purpose. The ownership will, however, remain with GCDA,” said the GCDA chairman, N. Venugopal.

Though the move has been welcomed by KFA, there are doubts being raised about certain clauses likely to be put in the MoU. This would include allowing the football body to use the venue for just 140 days a year.

“We will have to study what the restrictions are once they give the letter. If it is given for football it must be exclusively for football and that must be for 365 days.

So, nothing has yet been finalised,” said KFA secretary Anil Kumar. The association is planning to roll out a state-of-the-art football turf. FIFA has agreed to spend the amount for this.

The development, however, becomes highly relevant as India is bidding to host the Under-17 football World Cup and Kochi could be one of the lucky venues.

New Synthetic turf, 10,000 seater gallery at Ambedkar Stadium

KFA to take the work sponsored by FIFA

Exclusively for Football

http://i50.tinypic.com/2rypxnd.jpg
cc: Manorama

^^

http://epaper.mathrubhumi.com/epaperimages/572012/572012-md-ek-1/21715921.JPG
cc: Mathrubhumi

^^ Capacity of 10000 is too less IMO if the plan is to make it an international venue.

^^

Construction of a completely new pavilion might not be possible due to land constraints. Also funds will add to it. But 10,000 means at least 15,000 can be filled. Remember we had over 1 lakh crowd in the JNIS for the India-Iran match in 98.

I think 15,000 facility is fine for any sports. The other facilities should be standard class.