|
Berlin Cricket Club members are in shock at hearing the news that the city's only cricket pitch has been removed by the authorities. The dismantling began on Thursday of last week, shortly before the World Cup Cricket final, and means this season's matches on Körnerplatz are now in doubt.
 
(Photos: A. Wood)
As current German Champions, BCC sees it as its responsibility to play a role in fighting for the return of this ground to its rightful custodians, Berlin's cricket players. The club also fully supports the BCK in its efforts on the issue.
The Olympic Stadium authorities are trying to control entrance to the grounds by making people buy tickets. This is the real reason behind removing the pitch. It is sad that a sporting facility so stooped in history and so attractive to Berlin's tourism industry should be used for profit.
Martin Haynes, chairman of the Berlin Cricket Club says: "This is simply not cricket. When Germany is wrestling with its multi-culturalism debate, destroying a game enjoyed by hundreds of Berliners from all over the world, is a disastrous decision. Berliners and sports lovers from all over Germany should join us in trying to fight this decision and promote a crucial bastion of multi-kulti in Berlin."
Ashwin Prakash, member of the Berlin Cricket Club (2010 National Champions) and recent selection for the German National side, was particularly devastated by the news: "As the national sport of many countries, including India, England, Pakistan, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, cricket at Koernerplatz has been a real focal point for the multicultural community in Berlin. I find it particularly cruel that news that our beloved and only cricket ground has been ripped up on the eve of the World Cup final.
For more information - or for interview opportunities - please contact the Berlin Cricket Club committee here.
|
