This time the annual T-10 cricket tournament conducted by the Bangalore Turf Club (BTC) will be held in the paddock of this premier racing centre. Some of the members of the club are not happy with the idea, while the rest are appreciating the progress made, graduating from playing at the BARI ground to stroking the tennis ball under lights at the paddock area. The members opposed to the change in venue are of the view that designated places in sports arenas should not be utilised for tamashas, be it playing other sport. In response, the organisers of the event made it clear that no damage is done to the paddock. And effort is made to raise the bar and get to the next level, hosting the final under lights after the two day games. This apart, the organisers clarified that this annual exercise is a jamboree which provides a platform for the three sections, BTC staff, members of the club and the pros at this centre to bond. It is fun under the sun and the members of the teams are loving it. 

Member of the managing committee, Dayanand Mandre, who has played a stellar role, roping in 14 sponsors for the event disclosed that the fact that a sizeable number of promoters chose to fund the tournament only proves that people are happy supporting this cricket bash. And more importantly it is done at no cost to the club. 

The teams this summer look good and Jockeys led by Trevor Patel,the reigning champions will have their task cut out to record a hat-trick of wins, having successfully emerged champs in the two earlier editions. The club members team led by Nikhil Yathiraj should start  favourites taking into account that a good number of youngsters in this side can hit the ball long and this is a big advantage on this small ground which really is not fit for a slam-bang adventure. But it is fun under the lights and come Tuesday a good crowd is expected to turn up for the three-match competition. 

The staff members who had a stint under lights on Saturday looked comfortable and with Roshan leading the side are ready to successfully cross swords with the other two teams. Roshan (Tornadoes)  satisfied with his team made no secret of his opinion that the Tornadoes will come up trumps. 

Well all said and done it will prove to be a close contest and it is my opinion that the teams which fields the best will emerge on top